Indian-American Actress Priyanka Chopra surely knows how to make a timely statement with her every move. The star caused a buzz by walking down the red carpet at the Grammys with the five-time NBA champion’s jersey number "24" painted on her index fingernail.
Chopra appeared at the Grammys with husband Nick Jonas by her side and detail to her manicure to pay tribute to Bryant’s legacy. The actress also took her Instagram stories to say #RIPMamba by sharing a picture of her nail with “24” written on it.
She also shared a picture of Bryant and his daughter Gianna with a caption expressing grief about his death and saying: “He inspired an entire generation. His legacy is so much bigger than basketball. This heartbreaking accident also took the life of his young daughter, Gianna. I’m shook and so saddened. My heart goes out to Vanessa, Natalia, Bianka, and Capri Bryant".
The awards took place at Staples Center, where the star and his team played for years, and which had been his “home” for 20 seasons.
Prominent people from India and netizens are also mourning the tragic death of Bryant by expressing condolences to the star's family, leading to #Blackmamba and #RIPMamba trending on Twitter.
The world has lost a legend, and a family has lost its light. May the prayers of millions of people from around the world give #KobeBryant ’s family and those of the others who died in this heartbreaking tragedy courage and strength. #RIPMamba pic.twitter.com/KUGm6UtLBj
— Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) January 27, 2020
His legacy will live on forever. Rest In Peace, Kobe. #RIPMamba @NBA pic.twitter.com/lsA1eZzN7p
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) January 27, 2020
Heartbreaking to hear about Kobe, his daughter and everyone onboard the helicopter. Shocking tragedy.
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) January 27, 2020
Sincere condolences to the friends & family. #RIPMamba 🙏 pic.twitter.com/M1AYxnkqkW
American singer and Grammys host Alicia Keys also began the ceremony by paying an emotional tribute to Bryant with a performance of the Boyz II Men song "It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday”.
"We are literally standing here heartbroken in the house that Kobe Bryant built."@aliciakeys pays tribute to start this year's #Grammys #RIPMamba pic.twitter.com/dQPf8juQSZ
— Musical Critic (@MusicalCritic) January 27, 2020
Bryant was known as “Magic Mamba” for his ability to mimic a snake and his nearly lethal shooting skills. He announced his retirement from the game in 2016 as a five-time NBA champion. He also won gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2012 London Olympics.
