Articles by "VANTARA"
Showing posts with label VANTARA. Show all posts
TVN Media brings you the latest news and updates from Jammu and Kashmir, India, and the world — covering politics, culture, jobs, exams,

Lionel Messi participates in Maha Aarti during visit to Vantara in Gujarat

Global football superstar Lionel Messi recently visited Vantara, the wildlife rescue and conservation center in Jamnagar, Gujarat, founded by Anant Ambani. During his visit, Messi participated in traditional Hindu cultural practices and learned about the facility's extensive conservation efforts.

The visit, which took place on December 16, saw the Argentinian icon hosted by Anant Ambani, son of Mukesh Ambani. He was reportedly joined by teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul for the unique cultural and environmental tour.

Focus on Conservation and Culture

A primary focus of the visit was Vantara's work in wildlife conservation. Messi engaged in discussions with Anant Ambani about the center's mission to rescue and rehabilitate animals. The event highlighted a blend of global sportsmanship with local tradition and environmental stewardship.

A significant part of the experience involved Messi's participation in traditional Hindu rituals. Reports and images from the visit show him taking part in a Maha Aarti, a revered Hindu ceremony of worship. This gesture was in line with the cultural ethos of the center and offered the football star a glimpse into local traditions.

Details of the Visit

The event was documented across various social media platforms, showing Messi and his teammates at the Ambani-led facility. Key activities during their time at Vantara included:

  • Observing wildlife up close within the conservation center.
  • Participating in a traditional Aarti ceremony.
  • Engaging directly with Anant Ambani on the subject of wildlife conservation.

The visit underscores a growing intersection of global personalities showing interest in India's cultural and environmental initiatives. Vantara, founded by Anant Ambani, has positioned itself as a major center for animal welfare, and this high-profile visit brings international attention to its work.


TVN Media brings you the latest news and updates from Jammu and Kashmir, India, and the world — covering politics, culture, jobs, exams,

Jamnagar, Gujarat — March 4, 2025 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Vantara, the world’s largest animal rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation centre, located in Jamnagar, Gujarat. Spanning approximately 3,500 acres, Vantara aims to provide a safe haven for rescued, endangered, and threatened animals from across the globe.

Key Highlights

During the inauguration, PM Modi toured the facility and interacted closely with various animal inhabitants. He fed Asiatic Lion cubs, a White Lion cub, a Clouded Leopard cub, and a Caracal cub—each representing a significant success in the centre’s conservation efforts. The Caracal, a species once widespread in India, is now part of a dedicated breeding program at Vantara to aid its reintroduction into the wild.

The facility also houses the Advanced Multi-Specialty Wildlife Hospital, equipped with MRI, CT scans, ICUs, and a Neonatal ICU. PM Modi observed an Asiatic Lion undergoing an MRI scan and visited the operation theatre, where a rescued Leopard was undergoing surgery after a roadside accident.

The Hydrotherapy Pool, designed to help elephants recover from arthritis and mobility issues, is among the standout features of the centre. Additionally, Vantara's world-class Elephant Hospital provides comprehensive medical care to rescued elephants.

History and Background

The idea of Vantara was conceived as part of a larger vision to protect wildlife and restore ecological balance. Developed by Reliance Industries Limited under the Greenbelt Project, the initiative began in 2006 with a small-scale animal rescue and rehabilitation effort. Over the years, the project expanded to become a full-fledged conservation centre.

Vantara's afforestation drive has seen over 25 million trees planted across the area, creating a lush, natural habitat for the animals. The centre is home to more than 1.5 lakh rescued animals, including some of the world's rarest species like the two-headed snake, two-headed turtle, Tapirs, Seals, Giant Otters, and Bongo antelopes.

Global Conservation Efforts

With a team of international veterinarians and wildlife experts, Vantara has set new standards in animal rescue and rehabilitation. The facility collaborates with global wildlife organisations and participates in various species reintroduction programs.

PM Modi highlighted Vantara’s role in reinforcing India’s commitment to environmental sustainability, calling it a "monumental step towards wildlife conservation and ecological balance." To commemorate the occasion, the Prime Minister released rescued parrots back into the wild—a symbolic gesture of Vantara’s mission to restore nature’s balance.

What’s Next?

Vantara plans to expand its rescue operations and strengthen its conservation programs, with a focus on breeding endangered species and developing community-based conservation models. The centre will also host educational programs to raise awareness about wildlife conservation.

Vantara marks a significant milestone in India’s conservation efforts. By combining advanced veterinary care, global collaboration, and sustainable practices, the centre sets a benchmark for wildlife rescue and rehabilitation worldwide.