Madhuri elephant, also known as Mahadevi in Kolhapur, is set to return to the city after the High-Powered Committee (HPC) allowed her to leave Vantara, the animal rescue and rehabilitation centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat. Vantara has said it respects the committee’s decision and will fully comply with the order while continuing to support Madhuri’s medical care after her return.
According to Vantara, the HPC passed its decision on September 9, 2026, after hearing the concerned parties, seeking reports and inspecting the facility at Nandani in Kolhapur, where Madhuri is expected to be housed.
The organisation said Madhuri was brought to Vantara in Jamnagar on July 30, 2025, following directions issued by the High-Powered Committee. Those directions were subsequently upheld by the Bombay High Court and the Supreme Court.
Vantara clarified that it had not sought custody of the elephant. Instead, it said Madhuri was brought to the facility because it had been directed to receive and care for her.
Vantara to Follow Conditions for Madhuri’s Return
The HPC has placed several conditions on Madhuri’s return to Kolhapur. One of the key conditions is that the elephant must not be used in processions or for any other purpose.
The order also requires Madhuri to receive round-the-clock care and undergo a medical examination every two weeks. Vantara has said it will follow these requirements and continue to remain involved in her healthcare.
“Vantara respects the authority of the HPC and will comply fully with its directions,” the organisation said.
The centre maintained that its approach throughout the matter has been based on veterinary advice and the welfare of Madhuri. According to Vantara, her health has improved and stabilised following sustained veterinary treatment, although she continues to have chronic health conditions.
These conditions, the organisation said, require ongoing supportive treatment, regular observation and veterinary supervision.
Veterinary Support Will Continue After Madhuri Reaches Kolhapur
Vantara said its responsibility towards the Madhuri elephant will not end once she returns to Kolhapur. The organisation has helped prepare the facility at Nandani for her transition and has assisted with arrangements related to housing, veterinary infrastructure, medical equipment, medicines and other requirements.
As part of the HPC’s directions, Vantara’s veterinary team will visit Madhuri in Kolhapur every fortnight to conduct medical examinations. The veterinarians will also submit medical reports to the competent authorities as required.
Vantara said this arrangement is intended to ensure continuity of care and protect Madhuri’s welfare regardless of where she is housed.
The organisation has also worked on the enclosure and other facilities at Nandani. It said it made the best arrangements possible within the infrastructure available at the site.
Town-Planning Restrictions Limit Further Development
Vantara said additional improvements at the Nandani facility could not be completed immediately because of town-planning restrictions.
According to the organisation, a road passing through land owned by the trust has reduced the space available for further development. As a result, there are limitations on how much the existing facility can be expanded or modified at present.
However, Vantara said it would remain available to the Math for future improvements after Madhuri settles into her new surroundings. It also said it would assist with further upgrades if instructed to do so by a court or another competent authority.
Madhuri’s Welfare Remains Central to Vantara’s Position
Vantara said its position in the matter has consistently been based on animal welfare, veterinary science and responsible care. The organisation stressed that Madhuri’s health, dignity and safety remain its primary concerns.
The centre also thanked the Supreme Court, Bombay High Court and High-Powered Committee for their directions. It expressed appreciation to the governments of Maharashtra and Gujarat and their officials for their involvement in the matter.
Vantara also acknowledged the Math and people of Kolhapur for their concern for Madhuri. It recognised PETA India for bringing the elephant’s condition before the High-Powered Committee.
The return of Madhuri to Kolhapur comes with strict requirements intended to protect her welfare. While she will no longer be housed at Vantara, the organisation has made it clear that it intends to remain involved in her medical care.
Vantara said Madhuri’s wellbeing is its foremost concern and that its commitment to her health and welfare does not depend on her location. The organisation expressed hope that she remains healthy and enjoys a safe, peaceful and dignified life after returning to Kolhapur.
For Madhuri, the move marks another important chapter after more than a year at Vantara in Jamnagar. Her future care will now depend on close supervision, proper facilities and compliance with the conditions laid down by the High-Powered Committee.
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