The nation mourns the passing of Saalumarada Thimmakka, one of India’s most respected environmental champions. Known affectionately as the “Mother of Trees,” she devoted more than eight decades of her life to nurturing saplings and promoting the value of afforestation at the grassroots level.

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

Early Life and the Beginning of Saalumarada Thimmakka’s Green Journey

Born in 1911 in a modest family in Karnataka, Thimmakka had no formal schooling and worked as a daily wage labourer. She and her husband, Chikkayya, were childless, which eventually inspired her to dedicate her maternal affection toward nurturing trees. What began as a small personal act soon transformed into a lifelong environmental movement.

The Iconic “Row of Trees”

Her most celebrated achievement was the planting of 385 banyan trees along a 4.5 km stretch between Hulikal and Kudur. She and her husband watered each sapling by carrying water long distances, protected them with makeshift fences, and ensured their survival through challenging weather conditions. Over the years, these trees grew into a majestic green corridor, earning her the title “Saalumarada,” which means “row of trees.”

Apart from her famous Banyan Avenue, she is credited with planting thousands of trees, making a significant contribution to Karnataka’s environmental landscape.

Awards and National Recognition of Saalumarada Thimmakka

Her decades of dedication earned her numerous prestigious honours.
Key recognitions include:

Padma Shri Award (2019)
Nadoja Award from Hampi University
National Citizen Award
Indira Priyadarshini Vrikshamitra Award
She was also acknowledged internationally and featured among inspiring global personalities in various recognitions over the years.

Legacy and Environmental Influence

Thimmakka’s contribution extended beyond planting trees. She inspired countless environmental movements, school campaigns, plantation drives, and state-led initiatives promoting green cover. Various government departments and environmental groups have implemented programmes in her honour, including large-scale sapling plantation drives symbolising her years of service.

Her philosophy was simple but powerful—trees must be nurtured like children. This message resonated across communities and continues to motivate young environmentalists and conservation volunteers throughout India.

Final Days and State Honour

At the age of 114, Saalumarada Thimmakka passed away in a private hospital in Bengaluru after a period of illness. Her funeral was held with full state honours, reflecting the deep respect she earned for her unwavering dedication to nature. Tributes poured in from leaders, activists, and citizens across Karnataka and India.

The Chief Minister expressed profound grief, calling her a timeless figure whose love for nature will continue to inspire generations. The government has also planned initiatives to preserve her legacy through community-based plantation programmes.