'Would like to explore India first' - MS Dhoni's old video resurfaces amid Maldives row

Former India captain MS Dhoni stated that he wants to explore India before visiting other countries for vacation in the midst of the Maldives row. Recently, a Maldivian minister made controversial remarks on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi following the latter's recent Lakshadweep trip, assuming that New Delhi is planning the Union Territory as an alternative tourist destination to the Maldives. Following this, two other ministers from Maldives shared PM Modi's photos from Lakshadweep along with some controversial comments.  

In a video that has surfaced on social media, Dhoni was heard saying he has traveled all across the world during his international career. However, he and his wife now want to visit new places for vacations, starting from India.

"Mostly, I do travel a lot but not for vacations. Frankly, if you ask me, I have not been on a lot of vacations. During my cricket playing time, mostly I would go to nations where cricket was there. I haven't seen a lot because I was like I have come here to play cricket, I will play cricket and come back. So, not a lot of fun that way," Dhoni said in the video.

"My wife loves to travel. So, now our plan is... we are getting some time off, we want to travel. But we want to start from India. We have so many beautiful places over here. I would like to explore them first before heading to different places," the 42-year-old added.

Watch the video:

First priority for Indian tourism places then others. This is why MS Dhoni is GOAT 🇮🇳❤#ExploreIndianIslands #Maldives pic.twitter.com/8iOvsmEs5h

— ` (@WorshipDhoni) January 7, 2024

Amid the ongoing controversy involving public figures in the Maldives making critical remarks about India, renowned cricketers, including Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh, Venkatesh Prasad, and Suresh Raina, have openly opposed the comments. The cricket icons have taken a stand by urging citizens to embrace Indian destinations. Adding to this, the old video featuring MS Dhoni, wherein he significantly highlighted the culture and beauty of India, reinforces the sentiment of admiration for the nation.