Reliance Foundation unveils Vantara, a transformative animal welfare project launched by Anant Ambani in Gujarat, India. The name Vantara, meaning “Star of the Forest” in Hindi, perfectly reflects its purpose—offering rescue, treatment, care, and rehabilitation to animals in distress. This world-class initiative by Reliance Foundation and Reliance Industries sets a new benchmark in animal welfare not only in India but globally.
Reliance Foundation Unveils Vantara: What is Vantara?
Vantara is a one-of-a-kind project entirely devoted to protecting animals who have suffered neglect, injury, or abuse. It provides these animals with a safe space to heal and live peacefully. Vantara is not a zoo or a commercial venture—it is a Sevalaya (service home), built with the sole aim of serving animals with love, respect, and compassion.
As Anant Ambani shared in an interview, “In Radha Krishna Elephant Welfare Trust, we have rescued more than 200 elephants from different parts of India. We serve elephants with devotion because we believe Lord Ganesha lives within them. Serving elephants is like serving Ganesha.”
Size and Features of the Vantara Facility
Spanning over 650 acres within a larger 3,000-acre area, the Vantara campus is among the largest animal rescue centers in the world. It includes:
- A 14,000 sq ft kitchen designed exclusively for elephants
- Customized diets for each animal focusing on physical health and oral care
- State-of-the-art shelters that replicate natural habitats
- Advanced medical facilities and specialized animal hospitals
- Ayurvedic therapy and care for wellness
Quick Overview of Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Gujarat, India |
| Total Campus Area | 3,000 + acres |
| Rescue and Rehabilitation Area | 650 acres |
| Special Elephant Kitchen | 14,000 sq ft with customized diets |
| Animal Hospital Facilities | MRI, CT Scan, Endoscopy, Robotic Surgery, ICU, Prosthetics |
| Animals Rescued So Far | 200+ elephants, thousands of animals, birds, and reptiles |
| Global Reach | Operations extended to Mexico, Venezuela, and Central America |
| Future Plans | Educational Zoological Park (non-commercial) |
Ayurvedic and Holistic Care for Elephants
Vantara is known for its unique approach to animal care, especially elephants. The center combines modern science with traditional Ayurvedic methods. Elephants receive regular hot oil massages, applications of Multani Mitti (Fuller’s earth), and care guided by expert Ayurvedic doctors. These treatments help in physical healing and mental relaxation for the animals.
The Inspiration Behind Vantara
When asked what inspired him to create this center, Anant Ambani spoke from the heart. He said, “My parents have been animal lovers since their childhood. They once adopted over 30 stray dogs. I grew up with the same love and respect for animals. In Hinduism, every deity is associated with an animal. I wanted to honor that spiritual belief.”
He continued, “My mother has been my biggest source of inspiration. We believe in Sanatan Dharma, which teaches that all beings are equal. This mindset can inspire people globally to treat animals with love. Like they say—’Small drops of water make a big ocean.’ Every little effort matters.”
Vantara’s Modern Medical Facilities
One of the highlights of Vantara is its world-class animal hospital. Anant Ambani proudly shared, “We have built an animal hospital equipped with the most advanced technologies. It includes MRI and CT scan machines, endoscopic robotic surgery tools, and six fully functional surgical centers.”
The hospital also includes inpatient and outpatient facilities and an ICU dedicated to wildlife. One of the most innovative treatments performed here is the attachment of prosthetics for injured animals—a groundbreaking service rarely found elsewhere in the world.
Also read: What Is the Meaning of Vantara? Uncovering the Story Behind This Unique Term
Global Impact and Legal Commitment
Vantara doesn’t limit its mission to India. It has responded to international calls for help from countries like Mexico and Venezuela, transporting and rescuing large animals from dangerous or inhumane environments. All rescue efforts are carried out in strict compliance with legal and regulatory standards both in India and globally.
Also read: Vantara Gajsevak Sammelan: A Landmark Initiative Empowering Elephant Caregivers Across India
Future Vision
Anant Ambani emphasized that the goal is to inspire others, not to run a business. He mentioned, “We plan to open a zoological park soon, but only for educational purposes. We want people to visit, learn, and be inspired to care for animals. This is a project of service, not profit.”
He concluded by saying, “God has given me the strength and the blessings of my parents to do this work. Vantara is my passion project—a small step with the hope of making a big difference.”
Reliance Foundation unveils Vantara not just as a rescue center, but as a movement that combines tradition, science, and compassion. With its global vision and deep cultural roots, Vantara has the power to make India a global model for animal welfare and ethical treatment of all living beings.
If you’re inspired by this initiative, remember: even small acts of kindness toward animals can bring about massive change.
