Anant Ambani’s Vantara: A Sanctuary for Rescued Animals

Nestled within the verdant embrace of Reliance’s Jamnagar Refinery Complex in Gujarat, the Vantara ecosystem is a testament to the power of compassion and innovation. This sprawling sanctuary spans 3,000 acres and is home to over 2,000 animals, including 200 rescued elephants, making it one of the largest animal rescue and rehabilitation centers in the world. This initiative, spearheaded by Anant Ambani, director of Reliance Industries and Reliance Foundation, is a beacon of hope for injured, abused, and threatened animals, both in India and abroad.

The Vantara initiative was born from a deeply personal experience for Anant Ambani. He recalls a pivotal moment from his childhood when he and his mother, philanthropist Nita Ambani, encountered a distressed elephant on a sweltering day in Rajasthan. This encounter ignited a lifelong commitment to animal welfare, leading to the establishment of Vantara.

The sanctuary is a haven for a diverse array of species, including large felines like leopards, tigers, lions, and jaguars, as well as herbivores such as deer and reptiles like crocodiles, snakes, and turtles. Each animal is provided with state-of-the-art enclosures and shelters, ensuring their well-being and recovery.

Vantara is not just a sanctuary; it is a symbol of the transformative power of compassion and dedication. The team at Vantara, comprising over 300 professionals, is committed to providing the highest standard of care for the animals. This includes employing Ayurvedic techniques for elephant care, such as hot oil massages and the application of Multani Mitti, a natural clay known for its soothing properties.

Beyond its borders, Vantara extends its reach to international rescue missions, responding to calls from zoo authorities in countries like Mexico and Venezuela. These efforts are conducted in strict adherence to legal and regulatory frameworks, both in India and abroad.

The launch of the rescue and rehabilitation center, spanning 650 acres within the 3,000-acre premises, marks a significant milestone in Vantara’s journey. This facility serves as a sanctuary for animals previously confined in circuses or zoos, providing them with a safe and nurturing environment.

Vantara is more than just a sanctuary; it is a symbol of hope and compassion. It stands as a testament to the transformative power of empathy and dedication, offering a lifeline to animals in need. Anant Ambani has expressed,“This isn’t a zoo; it’s a ‘Sevalaya’ (service room). I believe that Shri Ganesh resides in elephants, and the form of Ganesh is that of an elephant. So, I serve elephants with the spirit of honoring Ganesha.”

Vantara is a beacon of hope for animals in distress, providing them with a second chance at life. It is a testament to the power of compassion and dedication, offering a lifeline to animals in need. The name “Vantara” itself, a Hindi word, means ‘star of the forest’, symbolizing the sanctuary’s commitment to the rescue, treatment, care, and rehabilitation of animals in need.

BY – KASHISH JAIN