As in the rest of the world, Meghalaya mourned the loss of Brazilian football great Pele today.
Pele, who was loved around the world and who died yesterday after a long illness, was particularly admired in Meghalaya, which loves its football and Brazil.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, who was pictured in an Argentina jersey during the final of the recent FIFA World Cup, led tributes this morning, saying on social media, “Pele’s jersey number was No. 10 but he showed the world time and again that he will always remain No. 01! His demise is a loss to every football lover globally. Rest easy, legend.”
His brother and cabinet minister, James PK Sangma, meanwhile, wrote, “Pele, the greatest among the greats, has left behind his humongous legacy today in a simple yet humbling life: the one who rose from hardships due to sheer passion and purpose to win over the world. While we pray for his soul, a footballing legend and athlete like Pele will never die. He will continue to live in the hearts of the millions he inspired. Rest in Power Pele.”
Others from across the whole spectrum of society were quick to update their WhatsApp, Instagram and Facebook statuses in tribute to the legend, such as renowned football coach Bobby Lyngdoh Nongbet and player Redeem Tlang.
Tlang was one of several current footballers from the state who honoured Pele, whose aura and contribution to the sport was such even though none of the current crop of players would have been born when he retired from the beautiful game.