Vantara offers to build rehab centre for elephant Madhuri in Kolhapur, backs return petition in court

Vantara has proposed to set up a satellite rehabilitation centre for Madhuri in the Nandani area of Kolhapur, developed in consultation with the Jain Math and the Maharashtra Forest Department. The facility, if approved, will include advanced medical care, open habitats, and therapeutic amenities tailored to the elephant’s health needs.The development comes amid rising concerns from the Jain community, who view Madhuri as spiritually integral to their religious life. Acknowledging these sentiments, Vantara has also committed to supporting any petition filed by the Jain Math and the Maharashtra Government before the Supreme Court requesting Madhuri’s return to Kolhapur.“We recognise and respect the deep emotional and cultural significance Madhuri holds for the community,” the organisation said in an official statement, adding that their involvement was solely to comply with court orders and not to disrupt religious tradition.The offer was welcomed by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who shared on X that Vantara had assured full cooperation.“Good news is that they are happy to join Maharashtra Government’s petition before the Hon’ble Supreme Court for the smooth passage of the elephant ‘Madhuri’ back to the Math,” he wrote.He also confirmed Vantara’s willingness to build a dedicated centre in Kolhapur, should the Court permit her return.The Vantara team reiterated that the decision to relocate Madhuri was taken by the Supreme Court and Bombay High Court, and that Vantara had no role in initiating or recommending the transfer. Their role was limited to housing and caring for the elephant at their wildlife rehabilitation facility in Gujarat, in compliance with judicial directions.In its detailed statement, Vantara expressed regret if its legally-bound involvement had caused distress to the Jain community, adding:Should the court grant Madhuri’s return, the proposed satellite facility in Kolhapur will include features such as hydrotherapy ponds, laser treatment rooms, open-chain-free habitats, and round-the-clock veterinary care. Vantara has clarified that this proposal is not for recognition or credit, but to align with any direction the court may give.“Let us move forward not in opposition but in unity, with love for Madhuri at the heart of it all,” the statement concludes.