Remembering Saalumarada Thimmakka: the Mother of Karnataka’s Trees

The passing of renowned environmentalist Saalumarada Thimmakka marks the end of an era in grassroots conservation in Karnataka. Widely admired for her lifelong commitment to tree planting and environmental stewardship, she became a symbol of dedication to afforestation and ecological preservation.

Life and Contributions

Thimmakka, born in 1911, devoted her life to nurturing trees despite having no formal education. Her most celebrated contribution was the planting and care of 385 banyan trees along a 4.5 km stretch between Hulikal and Kudur in Ramanagara district. This remarkable initiative earned her the affectionate title ‘Saalumarada’, meaning ‘row of trees’.

National Recognition

Her work brought her several prestigious honours over the decades. She received the Padma Shri in 2019, the Nadoja Award from Hampi University in 2010, the National Citizen Award in 1995, and the Indira Priyadarshini Vrikshamitra Award in 1997. These accolades reflected her influence on environmental activism and public awareness on afforestation.

Final Days and Public Response

The 114-year-old environmentalist had been undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Bengaluru, where she passed away after a period of illness. Tributes poured in from across the state, with many recalling her bond with the trees she nurtured and the inspiration she offered to environmental campaigns.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Thimmakka planted 385 banyan trees along a 4.5 km stretch in Karnataka.
• She was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2019 for her environmental work.
• The title ‘Saalumarada’ refers to a row of trees, linked to her plantation drive.
• She received major awards including the Nadoja Award and National Citizen Award.

Official Condolences

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed deep sorrow over her death, acknowledging her lifelong devotion to environmental conservation. He described her as a figure whose love for nature rendered her immortal, noting that the state had lost a revered personality who inspired generations through her work.