Animal rescue and rehabilitation organisation Vantara has decided to support the Maharashtra government’s petition seeking the return of the Mahadevi elephant, Madhuri, to the Jain religious establishment, Nandani Math, in Kolhapur district. The development was confirmed by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday.
Sharing an update on X, CM Fadnavis said he had a detailed discussion with senior Vantara officials, who assured full cooperation with the state’s initiative. “They have agreed to be part of the petition and assist in the safe return of the Mahadevi elephant (Madhuri) to Nandani Math,” he said.
Fadnavis clarified that Vantara had acted strictly in compliance with orders from the Hon’ble Supreme Court and had no intention of claiming ownership of the elephant. The organisation also expressed willingness to help set up a dedicated rehabilitation centre near the Math for Madhuri’s continued care.
In an official statement, Vantara acknowledged Madhuri’s spiritual and cultural importance to the Jain Math and the people of Kolhapur. “For decades, she has been an integral part of spiritual practices and community life. We recognise and respect the sentiments of the devotees, the Math leadership, and the wider community,” the statement read.
The organisation clarified that it had only acted as per judicial directives, providing care and shelter to Madhuri after her relocation was ordered by the courts. “At no point did Vantara initiate or recommend the move, nor was there any intent to interfere with religious traditions,” it added.
Vantara further pledged full technical and veterinary assistance, should the courts approve the petition for Madhuri’s return. It also promised to coordinate closely with the Jain Math and the Maharashtra government to establish a satellite rehabilitation facility in the Nandani area. The proposed centre will be developed in line with national animal welfare norms and international best practices.
The land for the centre will be identified with the guidance of the Math’s Guru and state authorities, and Vantara confirmed it is ready to commence the project upon receiving necessary approvals.
Issuing a heartfelt message, Vantara concluded: “If our involvement, though carried out under legal instructions, has caused any distress, we express our sincere regret. Michhami Dukkadam — if any hurt was caused through thought, word, or deed, knowingly or unknowingly, we seek your forgiveness.”
The case of Madhuri’s relocation had stirred public and religious sentiment in Kolhapur, prompting the state government to act in coordination with the Jain community and legal institutions.
