India’s Supreme Court has ordered an investigation into allegations of illegal animal imports and financial misconduct at a vast private zoo set up by Anant Ambani, the son of Asia’s richest person, Mukesh Ambani.
The zoo, known as Vantara, describes itself as the “world’s biggest wild animal rescue centre” and is located in the western state of Gujarat. According to the Central Zoo Authority, the site is home to over 200 elephants, 50 bears, 160 tigers, 200 lions, 250 leopards, and 900 crocodiles, among other animals.
The Supreme Court’s decision to order an investigation comes after petitions were filed based on media reports and complaints by wildlife organizations.
The court has appointed a panel led by retired judges to investigate alleged unlawful acquisition of animals, particularly elephants, other violations of wildlife regulations, and money laundering.
“We consider it appropriate… to call for an independent factual appraisal,” the court said, adding that the team would also assess whether Gujarat’s harsh climate was unsuitable for the animals and “complaints regarding creation of a vanity or private collection”.
Vantara has responded to the court’s decision, stating that it would extend “full cooperation” to the investigation team and “remains committed to transparency, compassion and full compliance with the law”.
“Our mission and focus continues to be the rescue, rehabilitation and care of animals,” the zoo said in a statement. This development follows reports that Vantara imported roughly 39,000 animals in 2024, including from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the United Arab Emirates, and Venezuela.
The zoo has been criticized by wildlife activists for housing endangered species on baking flatlands next to a giant oil refinery complex without any plan to return them to the wild.
Anant Ambani’s Vantara facility has also been in the spotlight for its extravagant wedding celebrations in 2024, which set a new benchmark in matrimonial extravagance with private performances by pop stars Rihanna, Justin Bieber, and Katy Perry.
Mukesh Ambani, the father of Anant Ambani, is a billionaire and the head of Reliance Industries. According to Forbes, his net worth is estimated to be around $108.2 billion, making him the richest person in Asia.
Vantara is spread across 3,000 acres and is touted to be the world’s largest zoo and rehabilitation center. The facility has been built with state-of-the-art medical facilities, including a 25,000 square feet elephant hospital equipped with advanced medical equipment.
The investigation into Vantara’s activities has sparked a national conversation about animal welfare and conservation in India. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Vantara will respond to the allegations and whether the facility will be able to continue its operations without any major changes.
With the Supreme Court’s oversight, the fate of the animals housed in the zoo hangs in the balance, and the public is eagerly awaiting the outcome of the investigation.¹ ²