Vantara: In a heartwarming yet emotional turn of events, a 36-year-old female elephant named Mahadevi, also known as Madhuri, has been relocated from a religious mutt in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, to an animal welfare facility in Vantara Jamnagar, Gujarat. The transfer comes after a prolonged legal and ethical debate, emphasizing the animal’s right to live a life of dignity, care, and companionship.
A Farewell Filled with Emotions
On Monday evening, the peaceful village of Nandani in Karvir tehsil witnessed a deeply emotional farewell. Villagers and devotees gathered in large numbers to say goodbye to Mahadevi, who had become an integral part of the religious institution Swasthishri Jinsen Bhattarak Pattacharya Mahaswami Sanstha. For decades, the elephant had lived among them, taking part in rituals and forming bonds with the local community.
However, her transfer marked not just a physical relocation but a significant step towards prioritizing animal welfare over traditional practices.
Legal Battle and Supreme Court’s Final Verdict
The decision to relocate Mahadevi was not made lightly. It came after a prolonged legal struggle initiated by the Kolhapur-based mutt. They challenged the Bombay High Court’s decision, which upheld a recommendation by a High-Powered Committee (HPC) that emphasized the deteriorating health and well-being of the elephant.
On July 16, 2025, the Bombay High Court maintained that an elephant’s right to a quality life must be placed above the institution’s right to use the animal in religious activities. A Bench comprising Justices Revati Mohite Dere and Neela Gokhale stated that Mahadevi’s physical and mental health had suffered greatly during her time with the trust.
The mutt’s petition, which opposed the transfer orders passed in December 2024 and June 2025, was ultimately dismissed by the Supreme Court of India. The apex court, represented by Justices J.B. Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan, upheld the High Court’s ruling and ordered that the elephant be relocated to the Radhe Krishna Elephant Welfare Trust, managed by Vantara in Jamnagar.
Mahadevi’s Troubled Past
Mahadevi’s early life was marred by tragedy. Having lived at the Bhattarak Math since the age of three, she had spent most of her life chained and isolated on a concrete floor. Her health began deteriorating over the years, leading to painful conditions such as arthritis, foot rot, and overgrown nails.
The situation escalated when, in 2017, Mahadevi fatally injured the chief priest of the Math by slamming him repeatedly against a wall. Since then, she had lived in even more isolation, raising serious concerns about her psychological state.
Independent veterinary reports revealed several health issues and signs of mental distress, prompting People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India and other animal rights organizations to intervene. They submitted reports and appeals to the Maharashtra Forest Department and the Supreme Court-appointed High-Powered Committee.
Concerns over Conditions and Animal Welfare
A comprehensive June 2024 report presented a grim picture of Mahadevi’s life at the Kolhapur facility. It noted severe shortcomings in her diet, hygiene, veterinary care, and overall living conditions. Her injuries included ulcerated wounds on her hip joints and other areas, believed to be caused by prolonged neglect and confinement.
Despite the Kolhapur trust’s argument that Mahadevi had been part of their traditions since 1992 and regularly participated in religious events, the court found the evidence of suffering to be far more compelling.
The Bombay High Court noted, “Though the mutt may not have deliberately harmed the elephant, in a situation where there is a conflict between the rights of the animal and the rights of humans to continue tradition, the elephant’s welfare must take priority.”
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A New Chapter at Vantara’s Sanctuary
Mahadevi’s relocation is more than just a change of location—it is a transformation of her life. At the Radhe Krishna Elephant Welfare Trust in Jamnagar, Mahadevi will finally experience life without chains, without isolation, and without fear.
She will be able to live in the company of other elephants and receive world-class veterinary treatment, including hydrotherapy for her arthritic condition. The sanctuary promises a peaceful, safe, and compassionate environment that meets global standards of animal care.
PETA India’s Director of Advocacy Projects, Khushboo Gupta, stated, “Elephants are intelligent, emotional beings who deserve a life free from chains and fear. We are thankful to the courts for recognizing Mahadevi’s right to live with dignity.”
Also read: What is Radha Krishna Temple Elephant Trust?, A trust that works with Vantara to serve elephants
Looking Forward: A Humane Alternative
Recognizing the cultural and religious significance of elephants in Indian rituals, PETA India and the Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organizations (FIAPO) have proposed a balanced solution. They have offered to donate mechanical elephants to the Jain Math for use in religious ceremonies, ensuring that traditions can continue without compromising the well-being of living animals.
This proposal not only respects religious sentiments but also aligns with modern values of compassion and humane treatment of animals.
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Conclusion
The elephant relocation to Gujarat marks a turning point in India’s approach to animal welfare. Mahadevi’s story is a powerful reminder that while traditions are important, the well-being and dignity of sentient beings must always come first. As Mahadevi begins a new chapter of her life at the Vantara sanctuary in Jamnagar, she carries with her not just memories of her past, but the hope of a better, more compassionate future.
