Vantara has issued a statement on Madhuri, known and loved as Mahadevi in Kolhapur, following the High-Powered Committee’s decision permitting the elephant to return to Kolhapur. The organisation said it respects the decision of the competent authorities and will continue supporting Madhuri’s health and welfare even after her return.
Why Madhuri came to Vantara
According to Vantara, Madhuri arrived at its facility in Jamnagar on 30 July 2025 in compliance with the directions of the High-Powered Committee, which were upheld by the Bombay High Court and the Supreme Court. Vantara said it did not seek custody of Madhuri, but received and cared for her because it was directed to do so.
The organisation said it understands the sentiments surrounding Madhuri in Kolhapur and, following discussions with the Maharashtra government, officials, stakeholders and community members, had stated on August 6, 2025 that it respected those sentiments and would abide by directions from the competent authorities
HPC permits Madhuri’s return to Kolhapur
The Supreme Court subsequently directed the parties to place their claims before the HPC. After hearing the parties, seeking reports and inspecting the facility at Nandani, the HPC passed a reasoned order on September 9, 2026, permitting Madhuri to return to Kolhapur subject to strict conditions.
These conditions include that Madhuri shall not be used for processions or any other purpose, receive round-the-clock care and undergo a medical examination every fortnight. Vantara said it respects the authority of the HPC and will fully comply with its directions
Vantara to continue Madhuri’s veterinary care
Vantara said its position has consistently been guided by veterinary science and Madhuri’s welfare. According to the organisation, her condition has been stabilised through sustained veterinary care, although her chronic conditions continue to require appropriate care, supportive management and regular veterinary monitoring.
Vantara said its responsibility will not end with Madhuri’s return. It has helped ensure that appropriate living conditions, veterinary infrastructure, medical equipment, medicines and other necessities are available at Nandani. Its veterinarians will also visit Madhuri in Kolhapur every fortnight, conduct her medical examination and submit reports to the competent authorities as directed by the HPC.
Vantara offers further support to Nandani facility
Vantara said it has also worked on the enclosure and facility at Nandani and put the best possible arrangements in place within the available infrastructure. According to the organisation, further improvements could not be undertaken at this stage because of town planning constraints, with a road passing through Trust land limiting the area available for development.
Vantara said that once Madhuri has settled in, it will remain available to the Math for upgrading the facility and will assist with such improvements if directed by courts or competent authorities.
Vantara said genuine animal welfare requires facts, veterinary science, responsible care, respect for due process and an unwavering commitment to safeguarding life forever.
The organisation also expressed gratitude to the Supreme Court, Bombay High Court and HPC, along with the governments of Maharashtra and Gujarat and their officials. It thanked the Math and people of Kolhapur for their concern for Madhuri and acknowledged PETA India’s role in bringing her condition before the HPC.
Vantara concluded by saying that Madhuri’s wellbeing remains its first concern, adding that its commitment to her health, welfare and dignity does not depend on where she lives. It wished Madhuri good health and a long, safe and happy life.