Why Elephant Mahadevi Was Moved to Vantara—and What Happens Next

Why the transfer of a temple elephant sparked protests, court debates, and a surprising offer from Vantara

When 36-year-old elephant Mahadevi, also known as Madhuri, was moved from Kolhapur’s Nandani Jain Math to the Vantara elephant sanctuary in Jamnagar, it set off a wave of emotion across Maharashtra. But this wasn’t just about an animal being relocated. It became a flashpoint for faith, politics, legality, and animal rights—all wrapped into one.

Let’s break down what really happened.

From Temple Icon to Courtroom Battle

For over three decades, Madhuri lived at the Jain Math in Kolhapur. She wasn’t just another temple elephant. She was part of the community’s identity, appearing at festivals, processions, and religious rituals. But years of walking on hot tar roads and standing for hours on stone floors took a toll on her body. She developed arthritis, foot rot, and severely overgrown nails.

Animal welfare groups like PETA flagged her condition to authorities, and a High-Powered Committee (HPC) reviewed her health. Their conclusion: Madhuri required urgent, specialized care unavailable at the temple.

Court Orders a Transfer

The Bombay High Court, based on the HPC’s report, ordered that she be moved to the Radhe Krishna Elephant Welfare Trust—part of the larger Vantara initiative in Jamnagar, Gujarat. When petitions against this decision reached the Supreme Court, the apex court upheld the order.

So on July 16, 2025, Mahadevi was transported to Jamnagar.

The Backlash Was Immediate

Thousands of Kolhapur residents took to the streets in protest. Religious leaders, local politicians, and community members all demanded Madhuri’s return. Over 2 lakh petition forms were sent to the President of India.

Why such outrage?

Because people saw it as a forced removal—not just of an elephant, but of a living symbol of faith. The sentiment was: “She isn’t just an animal. She’s family.”

Even political leaders like Devendra Fadnavis, Ajit Pawar, and Raju Shetti voiced support for the elephant’s return, with some accusing animal rights groups and industrial interests of trying to seize temple elephants under the guise of welfare.

Where Does Vantara Fit Into This?

Vantara—the facility backed by the Ambani family—was caught in the middle. They didn’t initiate the elephant’s transfer. The courts did. But once Madhuri arrived, Vantara’s team began treatment: hydrotherapy, laser therapy, pain management, and chain-free enclosures.

Photos released showed noticeable improvement in her foot condition. But for many, that wasn’t enough. They wanted her back—home.

Vantara Now Backs Her Return

In a surprising twist, Vantara recently offered a solution: They’d help build a satellite elephant care center in Kolhapur, so Madhuri could return with access to all the same medical resources.

They’ve also joined hands with the Maharashtra government and the Jain Math to file a review petition in the Supreme Court. The aim? To allow Madhuri to go back—safely and without compromising on her health.

So, What’s Next?

The legal path is still uncertain. The Supreme Court has already given a verdict. But public pressure is mounting. The proposed satellite center could serve as a middle ground between emotion and welfare.

At the heart of all this is a single elephant—whose life has now become a national debate. The situation isn’t black and white. It’s a grey area where compassion, legality, tradition, and science all intersect.