Why Mahadevi the Elephant’s Relocation Angered the Jain Community

The transfer of Mahadevi, a 36-year-old temple elephant, from a Jain monastery in Kolhapur to a wildlife care facility in Gujarat has triggered protests across Maharashtra and Karnataka. The elephant, also known as Madhuri, had lived at the Shri Jinsen Bhattarak Pattacharya Mahaswami Jain Math in Nandani for over three decades. She was moved to the Vantara rescue and rehabilitation centre in Jamnagar on a court order, but the decision has upset thousands of Jain followers.

Temple Elephant’s Move Sparks Protests

The Bombay High Court ordered Mahadevi’s relocation on July 16 after PETA India raised concerns about her physical and mental health. A Supreme Court-appointed committee supported the move, citing chronic health issues and behavioural signs of distress. The Supreme Court upheld the order on July 25.

Mahadevi suffers from arthritis, foot rot, and overgrown toenails. Reports also describe her as displaying stereotypic behaviour, such as repetitive head bobbing, often linked to psychological trauma. In 2017, she allegedly killed the head priest of the mutt by slamming him against a wall.

Despite the legal and medical reasoning, the elephant’s departure has caused widespread outrage. On Sunday, thousands of people marched silently in Kolhapur demanding her return. Former MP Raju Shetty led the march from Nandani to the district collectorate, where protesters submitted a memorandum to officials.

“She was in tears when they took her,” said Shetty. “They already have over 200 elephants at Vantara, but they still wanted her because she’s beautiful.”

Jain Leaders Demand Elephant’s Return

Over two lakh people have signed petitions calling for Mahadevi’s return. Congress MLC Satej Patil said the forms would be sent to the President’s office by speed post. Some local residents are reportedly boycotting Jio, a brand owned by the Ambani family, which also operates the Vantara centre.

Jain leaders argue the decision disrespects their religious customs and spiritual connection to the elephant. Gunadhatnandi Maharaj, head of the Varur shrine, said the relocation reflects a pattern of neglect toward Jain sentiments.

“This elephant is not just an animal to us. She’s part of our faith and daily rituals,” he said. “Jains are being sidelined again, just like during the Girnar shrine issue.”

Bhuvankeerthi Battarak Swamiji of Kanakagiri Mutt questioned the need to send Mahadevi to a private facility.

“Do we not know how to care for animals? We run over 14,000 cow shelters. Couldn’t the authorities have worked with the mutt to upgrade her care locally?” he said.

Vantara Defends Court-Ordered Relocation

While the court orders stand, Vantara has opened dialogue with Jain leaders.

“We are exploring, through legal and veterinary guidance, all possibilities for Madhuri’s future, including a peaceful resolution,” the centre said in a statement.

In Gujarat, officials at Vantara say Mahadevi is being given specialised treatment, including hydrotherapy and socialisation with other elephants. The facility spans about 3,000 acres and was developed by Reliance Industries as part of a conservation initiative. It opened earlier this year and is run by Anant Ambani.

“Her journey here starts with gentle care,” Vantara said in a statement posted on social media. “We’re learning what keeps her calm and comfortable. It’s not just about treatment, it’s about helping her feel safe and respected.”

Vantara said it acted under court orders and was not involved in initiating the elephant’s relocation.

“We recognise her spiritual value to the Jain community. We’re in direct talks with the mutt and will explore all legal and veterinary options for a peaceful resolution,” the centre said.

Calls Grow to Bring Her Back

PETA India defended the court’s decision. The group stated that Mahadevi’s solitary life and untreated medical conditions required urgent intervention. It urged critics to focus on the elephant’s well-being rather than her religious symbolism.

Still, many in Kolhapur and nearby areas remain unconvinced. Protests are also planned in Karnataka’s Hubballi and Belagavi. Jain religious leaders say they will continue pressuring both state and national governments until Mahadevi is returned.

On Thursday, BJP MP Dhananjay Mahadik met Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav and submitted a request to bring the elephant back to Nandani. At the same time, state health minister Prakash Abitkar said Vantara officials had signalled willingness to discuss the matter.

The issue has now moved beyond legal orders and animal care. For many Jains, Mahadevi’s absence represents a spiritual void and a loss of cultural identity.

“We’re not against care or treatment,” said Swamiji from Kolhapur. “We just want her home, where she belongs.”

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