The Mahadevi-Madhuri Elephant, a 36-year-old female elephant from Kolhapur, has become the heart of a powerful emotional movement. On Sunday, thousands of Kolhapur residents gathered in a massive silent march, demanding Mahadevi’s return from Vantara, a wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center located in Jamnagar, Gujarat. This peaceful protest, led by former MP Raju Shetty, reflects the deep bond between the people of Kolhapur and the elephant they lovingly call “Madhuri.”
The Silent March for Mahadevi-Madhuri Elephant’s Return
The march began early in the morning from Nandani and concluded at the Kolhapur district collectorate. Here, the protestors submitted a formal memorandum, urging the authorities to initiate Mahadevi’s return from Vantara. The movement is not just emotional but also backed by political leaders. State Health Minister Prakash Abitkar mentioned that Vantara officials had agreed to cooperate with the process of bringing Mahadevi back to her original home at the Shri Jinsen Bhattarak Pattacharya Mahaswami Jain Monastery in Nandani, Kolhapur.
How Did Mahadevi-Madhuri Elephant End Up at Vantara?
Mahadevi, also known as Madhuri, has lived at the Jain monastery in Nandani since 1992 when she was just about three years old. However, over time, concerns regarding her deteriorating health conditions came into focus. An NGO, along with the Maharashtra Forest Department, raised alarms over Mahadevi’s physical ailments and psychological distress. She was reportedly suffering from foot rot, overgrown toenails, arthritis, and exhibited stereotypic behavior like constant head-bobbing—an alarming sign of trauma linked to prolonged solitary captivity.
These concerns reached the Bombay High Court, which, on July 16, ordered Mahadevi’s relocation to Vantara’s specialized care facility in Jamnagar for proper treatment and rehabilitation. The Supreme Court upheld this decision on July 25, ensuring that Mahadevi would be moved to Vantara for her welfare.
Political Efforts to Bring Mahadevi-Madhuri Elephant Back to Kolhapur
The legal ruling did not sit well with the people of Kolhapur, who see Mahadevi as an integral part of their cultural and religious heritage. Political figures like BJP MP Dhananjay Mahadik and Shiv Sena MP Dhairyasheel Mane have since been lobbying to bring her back. Both leaders are working at the national level, seeking support from the Central Government. Mahadik has already met Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, submitting a memorandum to facilitate Mahadevi’s return to the Jain monastery.
Public Sentiment: Kolhapur’s Love for Mahadevi-Madhuri Elephant
The emotional connection between Kolhapur’s people and Mahadevi-Madhuri Elephant is profound. Over two lakh individuals have signed petitions demanding her return. These forms are set to be dispatched to the President’s office, symbolizing a mass collective plea. Local Congress MLC Satej Patil highlighted that the people of Kolhapur are determined to see Mahadevi back in her familiar surroundings.
In a unique form of protest, hundreds of Kolhapur residents have started porting out their Jio mobile numbers, targeting Reliance, the company behind Vantara. This act is seen as a direct message of dissatisfaction, emphasizing the emotional gravity of the situation.
Vantara’s Response: A New Chapter for Mahadevi-Madhuri Elephant?
On their part, Vantara officials have shown sensitivity toward the ongoing situation. In a recent Instagram post, Vantara mentioned that Mahadevi’s journey with them would focus on personalized care, ensuring that she settles in at her own pace. “It’s not just about treatment; it’s about helping her live life on her own terms, with the dignity and care she deserves,” the post said.
Vantara, officially known as the Radhe Krishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust, is part of Reliance Industries’ expansive wildlife conservation efforts. Spread over approximately 3,000 acres, the facility offers advanced treatments like hydrotherapy, expert veterinary care, and, importantly, socialization opportunities with other elephants. The Supreme Court-appointed High-Powered Committee (HPC) has endorsed these amenities as essential for Mahadevi’s recovery and overall well-being.
The History of Mahadevi-Madhuri Elephant: From Karnataka to Kolhapur
Mahadevi’s story began in Karnataka, from where she was brought to Kolhapur in 1992. Since then, she has been an inseparable part of the Shri Jinsen Bhattarak Pattacharya Mahaswami Jain monastery. However, her journey has not been without controversy. In 2017, Mahadevi was allegedly involved in a tragic incident where she killed the chief priest by slamming him against a wall. Despite this incident, the local community continues to hold her dear, attributing it more to her psychological trauma than any innate aggression.
Vantara: A Visionary Sanctuary or a Controversial Relocation?
Vantara, derived from Sanskrit words “Vana” (forest) and “Antara” (within), signifies a sanctuary-like space for animals. Reliance Industries describes Vantara as a safe haven designed for the rescue, treatment, and long-term care of wildlife in distress. The facility’s large-scale infrastructure and expert-led care programs have been praised globally.
However, for the people of Kolhapur, Mahadevi’s forced separation from her spiritual home has turned into a cultural and emotional struggle. Many believe that while Vantara may offer advanced medical care, Mahadevi’s true home remains at the monastery where she has spent most of her life.
Also read: Madhuri Gets a Grand Welcome at Vantara: A New Chapter for a Gentle Soul
The Road Ahead: Will Mahadevi-Madhuri Elephant Return to Kolhapur?
As the movement gains momentum, all eyes are now on the legal and political developments surrounding Mahadevi’s case. The local leaders continue to engage with the central government, while public protests and petitions amplify the collective voice of Kolhapur’s citizens. The coming weeks will determine whether Mahadevi-Madhuri Elephant will return to her spiritual abode or continue her rehabilitation journey at Vantara.
One thing is clear—Mahadevi is more than just an elephant to the people of Kolhapur. She symbolizes faith, heritage, and a bond that transcends the usual narratives of animal relocation. The case of Mahadevi-Madhuri Elephant has now become a national discussion, raising questions about the balance between scientific animal welfare and cultural-emotional ties.
Also read: The Complete Story of Mahadevi-Madhuri: From Chains in Kolhapur to Freedom at Vantara Jamnaga
Key Details Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Mahadevi (also known as Madhuri) |
| Age | 36 years |
| Origin | Karnataka, brought to Kolhapur in 1992 |
| Current Location | Vantara, Jamnagar, Gujarat |
| Previous Home | Shri Jinsen Bhattarak Pattacharya Mahaswami Jain Monastery, Nandani, Kolhapur |
| Health Issues | Foot rot, overgrown toenails, arthritis, psychological trauma |
| Court Order | Relocated by Bombay HC (July 16, 2025), Upheld by SC (July 25, 2025) |
| Protest Actions | Silent march, Jio number porting, petitions with 2 lakh+ signatures |
| Political Involvement | BJP MP Dhananjay Mahadik, Shiv Sena MP Dhairyasheel Mane, Congress MLC Satej Patil |
| Vantara Features | 3,000-acre sanctuary, hydrotherapy, veterinary care, elephant socialization programs |
