A vast animal sanctuary in India, founded by Anant Ambani, the youngest son of the nation's richest man, has become a significant center for rescuing and treating endangered animals. Vantara, situated on 4,500 acres in Gujarat, houses approximately 150,000 animals from over 2,000 species and 44 countries. The facility operates 22 state-of-the-art hospitals, with the stated aim of providing care for animals rescued from various dire circumstances, including private collections, bushmeat markets, war zones, defunct zoos, and circuses.
One notable rescue is Dorcas, a cheetah flown from a South African sanctuary in 2024 after it lost funding during the COVID-19 pandemic. She underwent a three-hour surgery for a shattered back leg, performed by a team of veterinarians. Another resident is Pancham, a Royal Bengal Tiger who killed eight villagers after his natural habitat was encroached upon. Vantara's senior vet, Dr. Boon Allwin, noted that such tigers do not typically target humans but may do so when seeking easier prey due to issues like dental problems.
The sanctuary receives an estimated 100 calls daily requesting assistance. With a staff of 5,000, including scientists and biologists, Vantara often responds, dispatching medical teams in response to natural disasters and other crises. While the priority is often to return animals to their native habitats or find guardians in their natural environments, many are brought to Vantara.
Scientific Endeavors and Conservation Focus
Vantara is preparing to enter a ten-year agreement with London's Natural History Museum to exchange research, which is anticipated to advance the understanding of wildlife. The center is conducting large-scale scientific investigations into wildlife health, genetics, and breeding, with the ultimate goal of reintroducing endangered animals into the wild. Vantara also operates what it claims is the world's largest animal biobank, having collected one million biological samples from over 1,000 species. This data is intended to aid in understanding wildlife health and potentially human medical issues, such as investigating cancer-resistant genes found in elephants.
The sanctuary's origins trace back to 2009 when Anant Ambani, then 12, was moved by the plight of an elephant named Gauri kept in chains. This led to the establishment of an elephant sanctuary, which later expanded into the current Vantara facility.
Criticisms and Recent Shift
Despite its conservation efforts, Vantara has faced criticism from some conservationists who argue it functions as a private zoo for the Ambani family. Concerns have been raised about the speed at which animals are imported and allegations of sidestepping import regulations. The Big Cat Rescue organization in Florida has contended that Vantara amasses wild animals, potentially as 'living trophies,' from questionable sources and suggested a focus on protecting natural habitats over captive animal collections. Proximity to a Reliance oil refinery on the same estate has also raised environmental and welfare concerns, although Vantara states the refinery is carbon-emission-free.
In response to these criticisms, Vantara announced a strategic shift, moving away from importing animals and increasing support for conservation projects, rescue centers, and veterinary hospitals in animals' countries of origin. The organization stated its goal is to be judged by the number of animals helped in their native habitats and the scientific expertise shared globally.
This shift may influence decisions regarding a herd of hippos descended from those introduced to Colombia by Pablo Escobar. While initially Vantara expressed willingness to provide lifelong care for these animals, they may now remain in Colombia with Vantara playing a role in their management.
Animal Rescues and Care
The sanctuary houses numerous animals with compelling stories. These include a chimpanzee recovering from a stroke, a bear that learned to swim after being rescued from confinement, and elephants treated for cruelty. The jaguar Gracia, born at Vantara after her mother was rescued from a Mexican zoo, suffers from health issues due to inbreeding. Dhonmati, a 50-year-old elephant, was rescued from street begging after her legs were fractured, and now receives extensive care, including treatment for rotting teeth and ulcers. She has formed a bond with Champa, a blind elephant whose eyes were damaged by her former handler.
Dorcas, the cheetah, is recovering from surgery, and her condition is being closely monitored. If she proves to be pregnant, her cub could be part of an effort to reintroduce cheetahs to the wild in India.
Another recent rescue is Joymoti, a 53-year-old elephant airlifted to Vantara after being swept miles downriver during floods in Assam. A video of her struggle to stay afloat garnered international attention. After being persuaded into a transport crate, she was flown to Gujarat for emergency medical attention, symbolizing the sanctuary's ongoing commitment to animal welfare.