Kannur: Room No. 309 at Blue Nile Hotel in Kannur was where Diego Maradona had put up during his visit to India in 2012. The hotel management has decided to convert it into a museum in honour of the Argentine football legend, who passed away last week.
“When Maradona arrived in Kannur on October 23, 2012, he occupied room number 309. For two days, Maradona stayed in this room. Being fans, we ensured an enjoyable stay for him. All things used by him back then are kept here in his memory,” said the hotel’s managing director Ravindran.
The room, which was renamed ‘Maradona Suite’, has framed photographs of Maradona. Also preserved in the room are the cigar he smoked, the newspapers, tea cups, bedsheet and a painting presented to him by a fan.
Ravindran recalled acquiring the services of a chef from Kochi to prepare Russian dishes for Maradona.
“He also liked Kerala fish and loved the prawns we served,” Ravindran said.
The 1986 World Cup-winning captain had travelled on a private trip and took part in a stadium where a sea of people turned up to have a glimpse of the ‘God of Football.’
