 "Elephant Madhuri's relocation has stirred up emotions. Image courtesy: News18")
Vantara has offered to set up a dedicated elephant rehabilitation facility in Kolhapur for Madhuri, the ageing elephant at the heart of a high-profile custody case that has stirred up religious and cultural emotions in Maharashtra.
In a statement, the organisation clarified that it had played no role in initiating Madhuri’s relocation and was merely complying with court orders.
The proposal to establish a satellite rehab centre in Kolhapur comes amid calls from the Jain community and the Jain Math in Kolhapur to return Madhuri to her traditional home.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis welcomed Vantara’s offer, calling it “a positive step” that honours both legal procedure and public sentiment.
Vantara clarifies its role, pledges support for Madhuri’s return
In its official statement, Vantara said it “acknowledges the deep religious and cultural significance that Madhuri holds for the Jain Math and the people of Kolhapur.” It noted that her relocation from Kolhapur was carried out solely in compliance with directions from the Supreme Court and the Bombay High Court. “At no stage did Vantara initiate or recommend the relocation,” the organisation stated, adding that it had no intent to interfere with spiritual traditions.
Vantara further said that it would “extend full support to any application filed by the Jain Math and the Government of Maharashtra before the Hon’ble Court requesting Madhuri’s return to Kolhapur.” Subject to judicial approval, the group promised to provide complete veterinary and logistical assistance for her “safe and dignified return.”
A new facility
Beyond facilitating Madhuri’s return, Vantara proposed the creation of a permanent satellite rehabilitation centre in the Nandani area of Kolhapur. This specialised facility, to be developed in collaboration with the Jain Math and the Maharashtra government, will adhere to international best practices in elephant care.
Features of the proposed centre include:
A hydrotherapy pond for joint relief
A larger water body for swimming
Laser therapy and physical rehab facilities
A covered night shelter
An open habitat for movement without chains
A sand pit for natural behaviour stimulation
A 24x7 on-site veterinary clinic
Rubberised resting platforms and sand mounds to aid recovery from arthritis and foot rot
The location of the centre will be finalised after consultation with the Guru of the Jain Math and government authorities. Vantara said it is prepared to begin implementation as soon as land and regulatory clearances are in place.
Vantara stressed that the proposal was not aimed at “credit, recognition, or vested interest,” and it remained fully open to any alternative plans the Jain Math may submit. The organisation also issued a formal apology if its legally mandated involvement caused any hurt or distress: “Michhami Dukkadam—if any hurt was caused through thought, word, or deed… we seek your forgiveness.”