After Over A Year At Vantara, Elephant Madhuri Set To Return To Kolhapur, Promises Continued Medical Care

Vantara, the Reliance-backed animal rescue and rehabilitation centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat, has said it will comply with the order allowing elephant Madhuri to return to Kolhapur, while stressing that her chronic health problems will require continued veterinary care.

Madhuri, known as Mahadevi in Kolhapur, was brought to Vantara on July 30, 2025, following directions of the High-Powered Committee (HPC), which were subsequently upheld by the Bombay High Court and the Supreme Court.

The HPC on September 9 allowed her return to Kolhapur after hearing the parties, examining reports and inspecting the facility at Nandani where she is expected to be housed.

Vantara said it had never sought custody of Madhuri and had cared for her after being directed to receive her. The centre said it respected the HPC's decision and would fully comply with the conditions attached to her return.

Those conditions include a ban on using Madhuri in processions or for any other purpose, round-the-clock care and a medical examination every fortnight. Vantara said its veterinarians will visit her in Kolhapur every two weeks and submit medical reports to the authorities as required.

The centre said Madhuri's condition had been stabilised through sustained treatment, but her chronic ailments remain and require supportive management and regular monitoring.

Vantara has also helped prepare for her transition by arranging veterinary infrastructure, medical equipment and medicines at Nandani. It said improvements to the facility were limited by town-planning restrictions, including a road passing through land belonging to the trust.

The centre said it would remain available to assist with future upgrades once Madhuri settles in, particularly if directed by courts or competent authorities.

Vantara also acknowledged the role of PETA India in bringing Madhuri's condition before the HPC and thanked the courts, governments, officials, the Math and Kolhapur residents.

It said its commitment to Madhuri's welfare would continue regardless of where she is housed, framing her return as a transition in care rather than an end to its responsibility.