The world’s largest animal sanctuary comes to life in “VANTARA SANCTUARY STORIES,” a six-part docuseries produced by Phantasticus Pictures and hosted by wildlife biologist Forrest Galante. Premiering globally on Animal Planet and Discovery+ on November 7, 2025
A Revolutionary Step in Wildlife Filmmaking
Phantasticus Pictures has officially unveiled its latest creation — “VANTARA SANCTUARY STORIES”, an awe-inspiring wildlife documentary series that promises to change the way we see animal conservation. Premiering on Friday, November 7, 2025, at 9:00 PM ET/PT on Animal Planet, the series invites viewers into the heart of Vantara, an extraordinary animal rescue and rehabilitation sanctuary in Gujarat, India.
The six-part series, hosted by internationally acclaimed wildlife biologist Forrest Galante, highlights the world’s most advanced animal welfare facility and the incredible humans behind its mission.
Inside the World’s Largest Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Center
Covering more than 3,500 acres of land and home to over one million animals, Vantara stands as a beacon of hope for wildlife around the world. Built with compassion, science, and sustainability at its core, it offers lifelong care to animals that have been abused, abandoned, or displaced.
Unlike traditional sanctuaries, Vantara is not open to the public — its sole focus is animal welfare. For the first time, the series gives global audiences an exclusive, inside look at the sanctuary’s remarkable operations, showing the unseen world of rescue, recovery, and renewal.
Forrest Galante Brings Vantara’s Stories to the World
Renowned for his fearless fieldwork and passion for wildlife, Forrest Galante describes the opportunity to film at Vantara as a defining experience of his career:
“Documenting the world’s largest animal sanctuary in India has been an unforgettable journey. I’ve witnessed compassion and conservation at an unparalleled level. This series captures the power of empathy, the beauty of preservation, and the hope that arises when humanity unites for the wellbeing of all living beings.”
Through his authentic storytelling, Galante immerses viewers in the daily rhythms of life at Vantara, showcasing breathtaking rescues, emotional recoveries, and the tireless dedication of the sanctuary’s caregivers.
The Visionary Behind Vantara: Anant Ambani
At the heart of this groundbreaking initiative stands Anant Ambani, the visionary who reimagined what animal welfare can achieve in the modern world. His dream began as a mission to protect and care for neglected animals and evolved into one of the world’s most ambitious conservation projects.
Vantara is built upon three pillars — science, compassion, and innovation. It houses advanced veterinary hospitals, research centers, and natural habitats designed to mirror the animals’ native environments. Under Ambani’s leadership, Vantara has become a symbol of how compassion and technology can coexist to create real change.
Global Release Schedule
VANTARA SANCTUARY STORIES will premiere globally on Animal Planet and stream on Discovery+ and JioHotstar, India’s top digital entertainment platform. The docuseries airs Fridays at 9:00 PM ET/PT, beginning November 7, 2025.
| Episode | Title | Air Date | Time (ET/PT) | Synopsis |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Heart of Vantara – The Experts | Nov 7, 2025 | 9:00 PM | Introduction to Vantara’s mission and the individuals who make it possible, including an exclusive interview with Anant Ambani. |
| 2 | Building a Sanctuary | Nov 14, 2025 | 9:00 PM | Forrest Galante joins the team to construct high-tech habitats for rescued animals. |
| 3 | Prescriptions and Provisions | Nov 21, 2025 | 9:00 PM | Inside Vantara’s cutting-edge veterinary hospital and animal nutrition facilities. |
| 4 | Mind Over Matters | Nov 28, 2025 | 9:00 PM | A closer look at emotional enrichment and mental stimulation programs for animals. |
| 5 | Habitats for the Future | Dec 5, 2025 | 9:00 PM | How Vantara’s breeding programs help secure the future of endangered species. |
| 6 | From Rescue to Sanctuary | Dec 12, 2025 | 9:00 PM | A large-scale rescue mission highlights Vantara’s mission of compassion and restoration. |
The Soul of the Sanctuary: Humans and Animals Together
Each episode of VANTARA SANCTUARY STORIES presents powerful, interwoven narratives of animals and their caretakers. Viewers will meet veterinarians, behaviorists, and rescue experts who dedicate their lives to animal welfare.
Among the most moving tales is that of Pancham, a Bengal tiger once labeled a “man-eater,” who found redemption through patient rehabilitation at Vantara. His journey reflects the sanctuary’s philosophy — that every creature deserves a second chance at life.
Also read: Vantara Zoo: A Paradise of Wildlife Conservation and Animal Care in India
Phantasticus Pictures: Crafting Cinema with Purpose
Produced by Phantasticus Pictures, the docuseries embodies cinematic brilliance and heartfelt storytelling. Known for creating impactful documentaries that inspire global audiences, the studio merges artistic visuals with emotional authenticity.
The production company has collaborated with conservationists and visionary creators across continents, ensuring every frame of VANTARA SANCTUARY STORIES maintains journalistic integrity and cinematic depth.
Like their acclaimed projects in science and culture, this series balances realism with emotion, showcasing nature’s resilience through world-class filmmaking.
Forrest Galante: The Adventurer Redefining Wildlife Television
A native of Zimbabwe, Forrest Galante has spent his life exploring the world’s wildest frontiers. His passion for animal conservation led to global recognition as the host of Discovery Channel’s Extinct or Alive, where he rediscovered eight species once believed to be extinct.
With over 1.9 million YouTube followers and international conservation projects across continents, Galante has become a trusted voice for environmental awareness. In VANTARA SANCTUARY STORIES, he combines his adventurous spirit with deep compassion, offering viewers a profound perspective on modern wildlife conservation.
Also read: Sequoia National Park: A Complete Travel Guide to California’s Majestic Forest Wonderland
About Phantasticus Pictures
Phantasticus Pictures is a global studio committed to producing inspiring, educational, and purpose-driven films. Specializing in documentaries and unscripted storytelling, the company partners with leading conservationists and organizations to amplify authentic, real-world narratives.
From wildlife and adventure to innovation and culture, Phantasticus creates stories that unite visual excellence with emotional impact. Their mission is simple — to bring real stories to life while promoting a more empathetic and sustainable world.
With VANTARA SANCTUARY STORIES, Phantasticus Pictures continues to build on its legacy, spotlighting individuals and sanctuaries that redefine humanity’s relationship with nature.
Also read: Redwood National Park: The Ultimate Travel Guide to California’s Ancient Giants
A Story That Inspires Global Change
At its core, VANTARA SANCTUARY STORIES is a testament to human compassion and responsibility. It goes beyond conservation — it’s about coexistence.
The series reminds viewers that protecting wildlife is not just a moral duty; it’s essential for the planet’s survival. Every frame radiates hope, showing how science, empathy, and innovation can rebuild what humanity once broke.
As the series premieres, it invites audiences everywhere to witness a new model for conservation — one rooted in kindness, respect, and sustainability.
Also read: Bat Appreciation Week: 5 Fascinating Facts About Bats You Probably Didn’t Know
Conclusion
With breathtaking visuals, deeply emotional stories, and an unflinching dedication to truth, VANTARA SANCTUARY STORIES transcends the boundaries of traditional wildlife documentaries. It’s not merely a series — it’s a movement celebrating the bond between humans and animals.
When the first episode airs this November 7, 2025, the world will see more than just a sanctuary; it will see a symbol of hope, compassion, and renewal.
Through VANTARA SANCTUARY STORIES, Phantasticus Pictures and Forrest Galante have not only captured nature’s beauty — they’ve reminded humanity of its role as nature’s guardian.
