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Home > Mumbai > Mumbai News > Article > Vantara to support Maharashtra govts petition for return of elephant Mahadevi to Nandani math Devendra Fadnavis

Vantara to support Maharashtra govt's petition for return of elephant Mahadevi to Nandani math: Devendra Fadnavis

Updated on: 06 August,2025 12:36 PM IST  |  Mumbai
mid-day online correspondent |

Taking to the social media platform X, CM Fadnavis confirmed that the Vantara authorities have agreed to participate in the petition that the Maharashtra government is preparing to file

Vantara to support Maharashtra govt's petition for return of elephant Mahadevi to Nandani math: Devendra Fadnavis

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Vantara to support Maharashtra govt's petition for return of elephant Mahadevi to Nandani math: Devendra Fadnavis
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Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday held a high-level meeting with senior officials of the Vantara Management in Mumbai, during which a significant breakthrough was achieved in the ongoing efforts to ensure the safe return of the revered elephant Mahadevi, also known as Madhuri, to the Nandani Math in Kolhapur district.

Taking to the social media platform X, CM Fadnavis confirmed that the Vantara authorities have agreed to participate in the petition that the Maharashtra government is preparing to file. The petition seeks the Supreme Court’s permission to facilitate the elephant's return to her original location, where she is not only regarded as a sacred symbol but also plays an integral role in local religious traditions.




"I held a detailed discussion with senior officials of Vantara Management in Mumbai today. They assured me that Vantara has decided to participate in the petition that the Maharashtra government has resolved to file to safely return the Mahadevi elephant (Madhuri) to the Nandani Math," CM Fadnavis stated.

The Vantara representatives reportedly clarified during the meeting that they had acted in compliance with Supreme Court orders and had no intention of retaining possession of the elephant against the wishes of the community or the state.

In a further show of cooperation, Vantara has expressed readiness to assist the state in setting up a dedicated rehabilitation center for the Mahadevi elephant at a location identified by the Forest Department near the Nandani Math. This initiative is aimed at ensuring the elephant’s welfare while respecting the cultural and spiritual sentiments of devotees.

"Vantara also expressed its readiness to fully assist the state government in establishing a rehabilitation center for the Mahadevi elephant at a location selected by the Forest Department near the Nandani Math in Kolhapur district. They also stated during this discussion that they fully respect the religious sentiments of various communities," the Chief Minister noted.

The issue of the Mahadevi elephant has sparked widespread public attention and concern, especially among devotees and communities linked to the Math.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday chaired a meeting regarding the issue of the Mahadevi elephant from Nandani Math, Taluka Shirol, District Kolhapur, in Mumbai.

Fadnavis shared on X, "State Government Stands Firm With Devotees! For 34 years, Madhuri, also known as Mahadevi has been a part of Nandani Math's tradition and the lives of the people. Her presence holds emotional and spiritual meaning and the strong public sentiment for her return has been deeply understood."

He said that taking this into account, the State Government will file a review petition before the Supreme Court. Nandani Math is also encouraged to include the State Government as a party in its own petition. Alongside this, the Forest Department will submit a separate and detailed stand before the Court.

Maharashtra CM further said that a team will be formed, including veterinary doctors, to ensure Madhuri's proper care. His post read, "All necessary facilities will be created, including the option of arrangements like a rescue centre if required. The Court will also be requested to appoint an independent committee to review the arrangements. The cases filed against citizens in this matter will be withdrawn."

"This issue is not just legal, it is about faith, tradition and the deep connection people feel. The State Government stands firmly with the devotees and with Nandani Math," the post further read.

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