Mahadevi elephant
“Madhuri is returning home after more than 450 days. Madhuri was shifted to Vantara on July 30, 2025, under the directions of the high-powered committee, which were later upheld by Bombay high court and Supreme Court . You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Kolhapur | Silver Rate in Kolhapur | Bank Holidays in Kolhapur | Public Holidays in Kolhapur Stay updated with the latest Kolhapur news.
Welcoming her return, Swastishri Jinsen Bhattarak Pattacharya Mahaswami, head of Nandani Math, said Madhuri held deep religious, historical and cultural significance for the region. People should give her two to three days to recover before visiting her,” he said. Meanwhile, Radhekrishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust and Vantara said Madhuri’s return was permitted by the high-powered committee after reviewing reports, hearing all parties and inspecting the facilities at Nandani. It said sustained veterinary intervention had helped stabilise her health, though her chronic conditions would continue to require regular monitoring and supportive treatment.
As anticipation grew through the evening, thousands waited for Madhuri’s arrival. Women decorated the village with colourful rangolis, while the Math premises wore a festive look. He described her return as a victory of faith and unity, achieved through the collective efforts of citizens across communities and political affiliations. Former MP Raju Shetti urged visitors to allow Madhuri adequate rest after her long journey. The order stipulates that the elephant cannot be used in processions or for any other purpose. Vantara maintained that it did not seek custody of the elephant and had only cared for her as directed. Download the TOI App.
Madhuri travelled in an animal ambulance provided by Vantara, accompanied by her mahout and a 40-member team from Nandani math. Kolhapur : Madhuri, affectionately called Mahadevi, had not returned home by midnight. From noon, thousands of villagers and devotees gathered at Gandhi Chowk in Nandani to welcome the elephant they cherish like a daughter. The convoy received a warm reception at Maharashtra-Gujarat border and was welcomed by devotees at several points along the route, including Mumbai and Pune, where people showered flower petals on the passing vehicle. Regular halts were taken to monitor the elephant’s condition during the journey. Under the terms of the order, Madhuri will receive round-the-clock care and undergo medical examinations every fortnight. Veterinary experts from Vantara will visit Kolhapur every two weeks and submit health reports to the authorities.
Her return was expected after 11pm on Friday, and a truckload of fresh fruit had already arrived for her homecoming.