After recovering from advanced arthritis, chronic foot rot and severe mobility issues, and extreme trauma, Madhuri returns to Kolhapur, where she has lived for over three decades

Madhuri, the elephant who arrived at Vantara, the wildlife rehabilitation and conservation centre in Jamnagar, for specialised medical care after being rescued by Vantara, has completed over a year of treatment and rehabilitation and is now set to return to Nandani Math in Kolhapur, Maharashtra. When Madhuri arrived at Vantara, she was suffering from advanced arthritis, chronic foot rot and significant mobility issues, which had developed over years of restricted movement and prolonged exposure to hard concrete surfaces. Extended durations of being tethered in chains had further limited her natural movement and aggravated her joint stiffness and mobility challenges. Despite her condition, she continued to be used for festivals and public processions, including being made to walk long distances on hot asphalt roads while restrained with ropes.