Kolhapur: The push to return Mahadevi (better known as Madhuri), an elephant currently with Vantara’s Radhe Krishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust in Jamnagar, Gujarat, to Swasthishri Jinsen Bhattarak Pattacharya Mahaswami Sanstha Math, in Kolhapur district’s Nandani in Shirol taluka, has gained momentum after an 11-month hiatus.
Inspection of Rehabilitation Centre
A team from Vantara arrived at the Math on Monday to inspect the rehabilitation centre being readied for Mahadevi’s transfer to Nandani. The team checked the available facilities, security measures, and the shelter arrangements for the pachyderm.
Background of the Case
Last year, Mahadevi was shifted for rehabilitation from the Math to the Jamnagar centre on the night of July 29 after the Supreme Court rejected the Math’s appeal against the Bombay HC direction ordering the move. This triggered an emotionally and politically intense drive to bring ‘Mahadevi’ back. A series of protests and village bandh actions followed, prompting the state govt to step in and help reach an understanding between Vantara and the Jain Math at Nandani. The Nandani Jain Math is linked to 743 Jain temples across Maharashtra and Karnataka.
Vantara's Update on Mahadevi
Vantara’s official page also shared a video on Tuesday, June 16, showing Mahadevi enjoying her time at the Vantara centre. The message stated, “A year ago, Madhuri arrived at Vantara in need of care, comfort, and healing. From that day onwards, a dedicated team of veterinarians, caregivers, nutritionists, and biologists worked tirelessly to provide the attention, expertise, and compassion she needed at every step of her journey. Together, we stood by a promise: to give Madhuri a better life and to fill this chapter of her life with support, comfort, and compassion. Today, Madhuri is stronger, healthier and will soon be reunited with those who have always cared for her. While Madhuri’s presence at Vantara will be deeply missed, there is no greater joy than seeing her move forward with the care, comfort, and love she deserves. Because at Vantara, every day is dedicated to one purpose: building a better world for every animal”.
Optimism in Nandani
In Nandani, the mood is upbeat as residents expect their much-loved elephant to return shortly. The head of the Nandani Math, Swastishri Jinsen Mahaswami, said, “Considering the deep emotions and pride of our people, we are making every effort to bring Madhuri back. The state govt, Vantara, and the Math are moving forward with a joint request to the High-Powered Committee (HPC). This consensus will clear the path for her return, and we expect our beloved elephant to be home shortly.”
Legal Framework
The legal framework for the transfer was solidified through a Supreme Court directive (misc. application no. 1644 of 2025). The court has tasked the high-powered committee with finalising the decision based on the tripartite agreement between the Jain Math, the state govt, and Vantara, ensuring that Mahadevi’s welfare remains the top priority during and after the transfer.
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