Saalumarada Thimmakka, widely known as the “Tree Woman of India,” symbolizes unwavering dedication to environmental conservation. Born in the Gubbi taluk of Tumkur district, Karnataka, her journey from poverty to becoming a globally recognized environmentalist is an inspiration. Her life’s work is a testament to the power of resilience and purpose.

Saalumarada Thimmakka
Saalumarada Thimmakka

Early Life and Challenges

Born into a poor family, Thimmakka had no formal education and worked as a laborer grazing cattle and sheep. Her childhood was marked by hardship and societal struggles. At 40, the grief of being unable to conceive led her to a transformative decision: she and her husband, Sri Chikkayya, began planting trees, finding solace and purpose in nurturing nature.

A Mission Rooted in Dedication

Starting with just 10 banyan saplings, the couple planted trees along a 4-kilometer stretch near the village of Kudoor. Every year, the count grew as they painstakingly nurtured the trees, often carrying pails of water over long distances and safeguarding the saplings from grazing cattle by fencing them with thorny shrubs. Over decades, their efforts resulted in the growth of more than 8,000 trees.

Recognition and Legacy

Thimmakka remained relatively unknown until the 1990s when her contributions began to gain attention. She received multiple accolades, including:

  • Padma Shri (2019): One of India’s highest civilian awards for her distinguished environmental efforts.
  • National Citizen’s Award (1996): For her unparalleled contributions to afforestation.
  • Nadoja Award (2017): Honored by Hampi University for her commitment to conservation.
  • Karnataka Rajyotsava Award: Recognizing her significant contributions within the state.

Her work extends beyond borders, with a U.S.-based environmental organization, Thimmakka’s Resources for Environmental Education, named in her honor.

Continuing the Mission

Thimmakka’s foster son, Sri Umesh B.N., has taken up the mantle of environmental conservation. Through initiatives like the PRITHVI BACHAO Movement, he continues to plant trees and distribute saplings to farmers, ensuring the mission lives on.

A Life of Purpose Amid Struggles

Despite her global recognition, Thimmakka’s life is not devoid of hardship. She depends on a modest government pension and often questions why accolades do not translate into tangible support. She dreams of building a hospital for her community, a goal she continues to pursue with unwavering determination.

Inspiring Generations

Saalumarada Thimmakka’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have on the environment. Her legacy is not just the trees she planted but also the lives she has inspired worldwide. Her life is a call to action for all to protect and preserve nature for future generations.

Conclusion

Saalumarada Thimmakka’s journey underscores the significance of small, consistent actions toward environmental conservation. Her remarkable life of struggle, dedication, and triumph is an enduring source of inspiration, urging everyone to find purpose and take steps toward a greener, sustainable future.

Reference 

Wikipedia contributors. (2024, December 24). Saalumarada Thimmakka. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saalumarada_Thimmakka

TR, J. (2023, November 5). Saalumarada Thimmakka plans another plantation drive near Bengaluru. The Hindu. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/centenarian-saalumarada-thimmakka-plans-another-plantation-drive-near-bengaluru/article67489828.ece

Shaw, A. (2021, August 30). Saalumarada Thimmakka – The Mother to More Than 8000 Trees. तरुमहिमन्. https://www.tarumahiman.in/2021/02/saalumarada-thimmakka-mother-to-more.html

Pranita. (2021, October 31). Saalumarada Thimmakka – The Mother to More Than 8000 Trees. BookOfAchievers. https://bookofachievers.com/articles/saalumarada-thimmakka-the-mother-to-more-than-8000-trees

India, T. C. (2019, September 5). This 103-year-old woman from Karnataka has grown 384 banyan trees. YourStory. https://yourstory.com/2015/11/saalumarada-thimmakka