New Delhi: Anant Ambani, Executive Director of Reliance Industries Limited, announced financial support worth ₹18 crore for temple development and elephant welfare initiatives during his recent visit to temples in Kerala.
During his visit, Ambani pledged ₹3 crore each to the Rajrajeshwaram Temple and the Guruvayur Temple, while also outlining a larger renovation plan for temple infrastructure and heritage restoration.
At Rajrajeshwaram Temple, Ambani offered traditional prayers and rituals before handing over a cheque of ₹3 crore for ongoing renovation work. He also committed an additional ₹12 crore towards a broader development project at the temple. The proposed works include restoration of the historic East Gopuram, a structure believed to be as old as the temple itself and which has remained in a deteriorated condition for more than two centuries. The funding will also support improvements to parking areas and other facilities to enhance convenience for pilgrims.
Temple authorities received Ambani with traditional honours during the visit, with officials and priests present to mark the occasion.
Earlier in the day, Ambani visited Guruvayur Temple and offered prayers to Lord Guruvayurappan. During the visit, he donated ₹3 crore to the temple trust and interacted with temple officials.
He also announced plans to support elephant welfare initiatives associated with the temple. The proposed initiatives include establishing a dedicated elephant hospital, creating chain free shelters and introducing modern care facilities designed to ensure scientific and humane treatment for temple elephants.
These initiatives are linked to Ambani’s wildlife and animal welfare efforts through Vantara. The programme focuses on improving the living conditions, medical care and overall welfare of elephants connected to temple traditions.
Speaking during the visit, Ambani said India’s spiritual traditions represent living institutions that foster faith, community values and compassion. He emphasised that preserving this heritage requires collective responsibility and that the initiatives aim to improve facilities for devotees while ensuring dignity and proper care for animals associated with temple culture.
