No processions, medical checkups every 2 weeks: Madhuri elephant returns to Kolhapur from Vantara

After more than a year at Vantara in Jamnagar, elephant Madhuri is set to return to Kolhapur. But her return comes with strict conditions and Vantara says her medical care will continue even after she leaves Gujarat.

Madhuri, known as Mahadevi in Kolhapur, can return to the city following an order issued by the High-Powered Committee (HPC) on September 9, 2026.

The committee's decision came after hearing the parties, seeking reports and inspecting the facility at Nandani where Madhuri is expected to be housed.

Vantara, which has been caring for Madhuri in Jamnagar, said it would comply with the order. At the same time, it stressed that Madhuri's chronic health conditions still require regular veterinary attention.

Madhuri cannot be used in processions

The HPC has attached strict conditions to Madhuri's return.

She cannot be used in processions or for any other purpose and must receive round-the-clock care. She must also undergo a medical examination every fortnight.

Vantara said its veterinarians will continue to be involved in her care after she returns to Kolhapur. Its veterinary team will visit Madhuri every two weeks, conduct medical examinations and submit reports to the authorities as required by the HPC.

That means Madhuri's move back to Kolhapur will not mark the end of the veterinary supervision she has received at Vantara.

Why was Madhuri at Vantara?

Madhuri was brought to Vantara in Jamnagar on July 30, 2025, following directions issued by the HPC. Those directions were upheld by the Bombay High Court and the Supreme Court, Vantara said.

The organisation said it did not seek custody of Madhuri but received and cared for her because it had been directed to do so.

During her time at Vantara, her condition was stabilised through sustained veterinary treatment, according to the organisation. However, Vantara said her chronic conditions remain and require supportive management and regular monitoring.

Vantara prepares for Madhuri's return

Vantara said it has also worked to make Madhuri's return to Kolhapur easier.

The organisation said it helped arrange living conditions, veterinary infrastructure, medical equipment, medicines and other requirements at the Nandani facility.

It also said work had been carried out on the enclosure and facility to make the best arrangements possible with the infrastructure available.

But Vantara said there are limits to what can currently be done at the site.

According to the organisation, town-planning constraints and a road passing through land belonging to the trust have restricted the area available for further development.

Vantara said it would remain available to the Math for future upgrades once Madhuri has settled in and would assist with improvements if directed by a court or competent authority.

For Vantara, the focus now is on maintaining continuity of care.

The organisation said its approach throughout the matter has been guided by Madhuri's welfare and veterinary requirements, and that her wellbeing should not depend on where she is housed.

Madhuri's return follows directions from the HPC after a prolonged legal process involving the Bombay High Court and Supreme Court.

Vantara thanked the courts, the HPC, the Maharashtra and Gujarat governments and officials, as well as the Math and residents of Kolhapur for their concern for Madhuri. It also acknowledged PETA India's role in bringing her condition before the HPC.

For now, Madhuri is headed back to Kolhapur but under an arrangement that keeps her health and welfare at the centre of her return.