Mother of Trees’ Saalumarada Thimmakka, 114, Passes Away – Nation Pays Tribute
Mother of Trees’ Saalumarada Thimmakka, 114, Passes Away — Nation Pays Tribute
Renowned environmentalist and Padma Shri awardee Saalumarada Thimmakka passed away on Friday at a private hospital in Bengaluru. She was 114 and had been unwell for some time, her family said. Tributes and condolences have been pouring in from leaders, environmentalists, and people across the country, honouring her lifelong dedication to nature.
About Saalumarada Thimmakka
Born on June 30, 1911, in Karnataka, Thimmakka became a global symbol of environmental protection despite having no formal education. She gained widespread recognition for planting 385 banyan trees along a 4.5-km stretch between Hulikal and Kudur in Ramanagara district.
Childless, she lovingly cared for the saplings as if they were her own children. The name “Saalumarada,” meaning “row of trees” in Kannada, became a tribute to her remarkable work. Her efforts inspired generations and left a lasting legacy in India’s environmental movement.
Awards and Honours
Over the years, Thimmakka received several prestigious awards, including:
- Padma Shri (2019)
- Indira Priyadarshini Vrikshamitra Award (1997)
- National Citizen Award (1995)
- Nadoja Award, Hampi University (2010)
Nation Mourns Her Loss
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed deep grief, saying, “I am saddened to hear about the passing of ‘Vrikshamate’ Saalumarada Thimmakka. She planted thousands of trees and cared for them like her own children. Though she is no longer with us, her love for nature has made her immortal.”
Thimmakka’s passing marks the end of an inspiring life, but the countless trees she nurtured and the values she stood for will keep her memory alive for generations.
