Madhuri the Elephant’s Return to Kolhapur: Courts, Vantara, and Ongoing Care

Vantara has issued a fresh statement saying that the famed elephant known locally as Mahadevi – but more widely as Madhuri – was moved to Jamnagar only because the courts told them to. It wasn’t a voluntary hand‑over; it was a legal directive, and Vantara is simply following orders.

Back on 30 July 2025, Madhuri arrived at Vantara’s facility in Jamnagar after the High‑Powered Committee (HPC) gave the green light, a decision later backed by both the Bombay High Court and the Supreme Court. The organization never tried to claim ownership; they just opened their doors because the paperwork said so.

Understandably, people in Kolhapur feel a deep attachment to the gentle giant. Vantara met with Maharashtra officials, local leaders and community members on 6 August 2025, acknowledging those emotions and pledging to obey every instruction from the competent authorities.

Later, the Supreme Court asked all parties to bring their arguments before the HPC. After hearings, site inspections at the Nandani enclosure and a slew of reports, the HPC on 9 September 2026 issued a reasoned order allowing Madhuri’s return to Kolhapur – but only under strict conditions. She cannot be used in processions, she must receive 24‑hour care, and she is to be examined by a vet every two weeks.

Vantara says it will respect those conditions to the letter. The organisation’s stance has always been guided by veterinary science and Madhuri’s well‑being, not by politics or sentiment. While her health has stabilised thanks to ongoing treatment, chronic issues linger, meaning she still needs attentive, specialised care.

Even after Madhuri is back in Kolhapur, Vantara isn’t walking away. The team will help set up the necessary living arrangements, medical gear, medicines and anything else required. Their veterinarians will travel to Kolhapur every fortnight for check‑ups and will file reports with the authorities as the HPC demands – a continuity‑of‑care promise.

Regarding the Nandani facility itself, Vantara notes that they have already upgraded the enclosure as far as the existing land and road constraints allow. Further expansion is on hold because a public road cuts through the Trust’s property, limiting space. Once Madhuri settles, Vantara says it will stay on standby to assist the Math with any future upgrades, should the courts or officials ask.

In the statement, Vantara thanked the Supreme Court, the Bombay High Court and the HPC for their guidance, as well as the governments of Maharashtra and Gujarat for their cooperation. They also expressed gratitude to the Math of Kolhapur and the local community for caring about Madhuri, and acknowledged PETA India’s role in bringing the case before the HPC.

Bottom line: Madhuri’s health and dignity remain Vantara’s top priority, regardless of where she lives. The organisation wishes her a long, safe and comfortable life, and promises to keep watching over her, wherever she roams.