The Mahadevi Elephant, also known as Madhuri, has recently been at the centre of a public debate after her relocation from Kolhapur to Gujarat. Following widespread concerns and emotional appeals from the local community, Vantara-the wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre in Jamnagar — has assured that it will work towards her safe and dignified return, provided the necessary legal permissions are granted.
This decision comes after a sequence of legal orders and public reactions, making Mahadevi’s story one of the most talked-about wildlife matters in recent times.
Background of Mahadevi Elephant
The Mahadevi Elephant, aged 36, has been a beloved figure in the Kolhapur district for more than three decades. She resided at the Swastishree Jinsen Bhattarak Pattacharya Mahaswami Sansthan Math, a Jain religious institution in Nandani village, Karvir. Over the years, she became deeply woven into the religious, cultural, and emotional fabric of the local community.
For many devotees, she was more than just an animal — she was a spiritual companion and a symbol of devotion. Her presence during religious activities made her an irreplaceable part of the Matha’s traditions.
The Legal Relocation Order
A few weeks ago, the Bombay High Court ordered that Mahadevi (Madhuri) be relocated to the Radhe Krishna Elephant Welfare Trust in Jamnagar, a special elephant care centre managed under the Vantara initiative. This order was issued to ensure her proper health care and rehabilitation under expert supervision.
Vantara clarified that it had no role in initiating the relocation process. The decision was made entirely under judicial authority-including directions from both the Supreme Court and the Bombay High Court. Their involvement began only after the court’s directive, with the responsibility of providing veterinary support, safe housing, and rehabilitation for Mahadevi Elephant.
Vantara’s Statement on Community Concerns
In an official statement, Vantara acknowledged the deep connection between Mahadevi Elephant and the people of Kolhapur.
They said:
“We recognise the immense religious and cultural significance that Madhuri holds for the Jain Matha and the Kolhapur community. For decades, she has been a part of spiritual practices and community life. We respect the sentiments of the devotees, the Matha leadership, and all those who have expressed their attachment to her presence.”
Vantara also made it clear that they never intended to interfere with religious traditions or cause distress to the community. Their role, they explained, was solely to fulfil court-mandated responsibilities.
Maharashtra Government’s Efforts to Bring Mahadevi Back
On Tuesday, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis chaired a high-level meeting that included representatives from various political parties and officials. The meeting focused on finding a way to bring Mahadevi Elephant back to Kolhapur.
The CM announced that the state government will soon file a review petition in the Supreme Court, requesting permission for her return.
Vantara has pledged to fully support any such legal application made by the Jain Matha and the Maharashtra government. They have also committed to providing technical expertise and veterinary assistance for the safe transportation and dignified relocation of Mahadevi Elephant back to her home.
Proposal for a Satellite Rehabilitation Centre in Kolhapur
To address concerns about Mahadevi’s welfare after her return, Vantara has proposed setting up a satellite rehabilitation centre in Nandani, Kolhapur. This facility would be built according to established animal welfare guidelines, international best practices, and expert recommendations from the High Powered Committee.
The proposed features of this centre include:
- Special Hydrotherapy Pond – For joint and muscle relief
- Larger Water Body – For swimming and natural exercise
- Laser Therapy Room – For physical rehabilitation treatments
- Covered Night Shelter – For rest and weather protection
- Open Habitat Space – Without chains, allowing free movement
- Sand Pit – For natural behaviours and environmental enrichment
- On-site Veterinary Clinic – For 24/7 medical care
- Rubberised Flooring Platform – To ensure safe and comfortable resting
Additionally, specially designed mounds of soft sand will be provided to help her rest at an angle that relieves pressure from arthritis, aids recovery from foot problems, and reduces joint stress.
Coordination with Local Authorities
Vantara stated that the land for the proposed centre will be finalised in consultation with the Jain Matha and the Maharashtra government. Once all necessary permissions and grants are approved, their expert team will begin work in close coordination with the authorities.
They also stressed that this proposal is purely a recommendation and not a binding condition. The Jain Matha is free to suggest alternative plans, and the final decision will depend entirely on the directions of the court.
A Message of Regret and Respect
In a heartfelt message to the Jain community and the people of Kolhapur, Vantara expressed its regret if its court-directed involvement caused any emotional distress. They offered the Jain salutation “Michhami Dukkadam,” meaning:
“If any hurt was caused through thought, word, or deed, knowingly or unknowingly, we seek your forgiveness.”
Vantara reaffirmed its commitment to the highest standards of animal care, transparency, and respectful community engagement. Their priority, they said, will always be lawful conduct, the welfare of the animals under their care, and cooperation with local communities.
Also read: Ambani Vantara Animal Project: A Revolutionary Step Towards Wildlife Conservation in India
Why Mahadevi Elephant’s Case Matters
The case of Mahadevi Elephant is more than just about one animal. It represents the complex intersection of:
- Wildlife welfare – Ensuring elephants get proper medical care and living conditions.
- Religious and cultural traditions – Respecting the emotional and spiritual connection communities have with certain animals.
- Legal authority – Following court orders while balancing public sentiment.
- Community trust – Maintaining transparency and cooperation between authorities, institutions, and the public.
By proposing a rehabilitation centre in Kolhapur and supporting the review petition, Vantara is attempting to bridge the gap between legal requirements and community wishes.
Also read: Vantara Animal Rescue Centre: A Sanctuary of Hope for India’s Wildlife
Conclusion:
The future of Mahadevi Elephant now depends on the Supreme Court’s decision regarding her return. If approved, her journey back to Kolhapur will not just be a physical relocation but also a symbolic homecoming, reinforcing the bond between the community and one of its most cherished living symbols.
Until then, Vantara continues to care for her at its Jamnagar facility, ensuring that she receives world-class veterinary attention, a comfortable habitat, and a safe environment.
This story serves as a reminder that animal welfare, community traditions, and lawful governance can work hand-in-hand when there is mutual respect and genuine concern for the beings at the heart of the matter. The Mahadevi Elephant has already touched countless lives, and her next chapter is awaited with hope, care, and dignity.
