At Vantara, a sprawling 3,000-acre animal rescue and rehabilitation center in Jamnagar, Gujarat, elephant Mahadevi is embarking on a journey of recovery and healing. This "star of the forest," as Vantara translates from Sanskrit, is providing Mahadevi with a specialized routine designed to alleviate her distress and improve her well-being.

Vantara, established by the Reliance Foundation and spearheaded by Anant Ambani, is more than just an animal shelter; it's a sanctuary of compassion that integrates rescue, rehabilitation, breeding, and lifelong care for animals. The center aims to create a sustainable ecosystem where animals can thrive in environments that mimic their natural habitats. Housing over 150,000 animals across more than 2,000 species, Vantara operates under the regulatory frameworks set by the Central Zoo Authority of India and relevant state wildlife departments.

Mahadevi's routine at Vantara is a testament to the center's holistic approach. Recognizing the therapeutic benefits of water, Vantara has designed hydrotherapy pools and balneotherapy tanks with high-pressure jets to ease joint pain and promote relaxation. More than 40 hydrotherapy ponds across the facility offer natural water therapy, reducing the burden on joints by alleviating weight-bearing stress. This gentle treatment helps elephants like Mahadevi relax, heal, and regain mobility.

The facility also includes an Elephant Restraining Device and a hydraulic operation table, along with diagnostics like portable X-rays, ultrasounds, and thermal imaging. Expert veterinarians are on hand to conduct complex procedures, from cataract removals to tumor surgeries. This level of care extends beyond just treatment; a museum and auditorium serve as research and training hubs, advancing wildlife conservation and veterinary excellence.

Vantara's commitment extends to training programs for elephant caregivers. In collaboration with Project Elephant under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Vantara has launched India's largest training program for elephant caregivers, aiming to uplift the standards of elephant welfare across the country. This initiative, titled the Vantara Gajsevak Sammelan, brings together mahouts and caregivers from various Indian states for hands-on capacity-building, blending traditional wisdom with modern scientific approaches.

Beyond national efforts, Vantara is also making a global impact, hosting international training programs for forest officers from Congo, showcasing India's growing leadership in wildlife conservation.

Vantara's efforts have garnered international recognition, with support from top global wildlife doctors and experts, government agencies, research organizations, and animal welfare foundations. Anant Ambani envisions building India's first Wildlife Medical University to train future veterinarians and create more awareness about animal welfare. There are also plans for another Vantara center in Kaziranga, Assam, to extend rescue and care services to more regions.