Vantara: Have you heard about Vantara and wondered what it really is? The name became popular in 2024 during the wedding celebrations of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant. Since then, many have been curious. Let’s explore everything you need to know about this inspiring project.
What is Vantara?
Vantara means “Star of the Forest.” It is a massive animal rescue, care, and rehabilitation project started by Anant Ambani, the younger son of business tycoon Mukesh Ambani. Located in Jamnagar, Gujarat, Vantara spreads across 3,000 acres of green land and is not a zoo or a safari park—it’s a place for healing and protecting animals.
Purpose Behind Vantara
The main goal of Vantara is to rescue injured, endangered, and neglected animals, provide them with proper treatment, and help them return to their natural habitats. The facility is home to both Indian and international wildlife species, some of which are on the verge of extinction.
Anant Ambani believes that all living beings are part of one big family. Inspired by his mother, Nita Ambani, and Indian values that see nature as a mother, Anant launched this heartfelt project to serve animals in need.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Name | Vantara (Star of the Forest) |
| Location | Jamnagar, Gujarat, India |
| Total Area | 3,000 Acres |
| Initiated By | Anant Ambani (Reliance Foundation) |
| Start Year | 2019 (Planning) – Publicly known in 2024 |
| Main Purpose | Rescue, care, treatment, and rehabilitation of injured and endangered animals |
| Special Facilities | Advanced Animal Hospital, Species-Specific Enclosures, 14,000 sq.ft. Kitchen |
| Daily Elephant Diet Includes | Ragi & Coconut Laddoos, Khichdi, Fresh Vegetables |
| Notable Rescued Species | Elephants, Leopards, Tigers, Hybrid Lions, Crocodiles, Macaws, Komodo Dragons |
| International Support | Wildlife Experts, NGOs, Research Institutes |
| Celebrity Endorsements | Kareena Kapoor Khan (Shared rescue story of elephant “Tarzan”) |
| Future Expansion | New center in Kaziranga, Assam |
| Upcoming Plans | Wildlife Medical University in India |
| Total Animals Rescued (2024 est.) | Over 4,700 animals from various species |
Modern Facilities at Vantara
Vantara is equipped with:
- Advanced animal hospitals
- Natural living spaces
- Specialized enclosures for different species
- A special 14,000 sq. ft. kitchen for preparing nutritious meals, especially for elephants
Each elephant receives a carefully planned diet including ragi and coconut laddoos, khichdi, and seasonal vegetables. On World Elephant Day, Vantara even offers a special “56 bhog” meal to elephants.
Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation
Since 2019, Vantara has rescued:
- Over 300 elephants
- 229 leopards, 76 hybrid lions, and 71 tigers
- 857 crocodiles, 225 African tortoises, and 1,200+ iguanas
- Rare species like Komodo dragons, chimpanzees, orangutans, and even the nearly extinct Macaws from Brazil
Animals from across India and the world are brought to Vantara for emergency care and healing. Once healthy, many are returned to forests through proper rehabilitation programs.
Global Recognition and Support
Anant Ambani proudly announced that Vantara has received international recognition for its work. The project is supported by:
- Top global wildlife doctors and experts
- Government agencies and research organizations
- Animal welfare foundations like Radhe Krishna Elephant Trust and Greens Zoological Rescue Center
Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor Khan also praised the project, especially the successful cataract surgery of an elephant named Tarzan, who regained his eyesight.
Future Vision: Wildlife University
Vantara’s mission doesn’t end with rescue and treatment. Anant Ambani plans to build India’s first Wildlife Medical University to train future wildlife veterinarians and create more awareness about animal welfare across the country.
Also read: Vantara Prani Mitra Award: A New Benchmark in Animal Welfare
Expansion Plans
Another Vantara center is planned in Kaziranga, Assam, on India’s eastern side. This will help extend the reach of animal rescue and care services to more regions.
Why Vantara Matters
In a world where land is precious and animals are often neglected, dedicating 3,000 acres for their care is a truly noble step. Vantara is not just an animal shelter—it is a sanctuary of compassion, a place where animals find healing, dignity, and love.
