Saalumarada Thimmakka, renowned environmentalist and Padma Shri laureate, passes away at 114

Renowned environmentalist and Padma Shri recipient Saalumarada Thimmakka died on Friday at the age of 114 at a private hospital in Bengaluru. Family members said she had been unwell for some time and was undergoing treatment.

Born on 30 June 1911 in Karnataka, Thimmakka rose to national and international prominence through her grassroots environmental work, despite having no formal schooling. She became celebrated for planting 385 banyan trees along a 4.5-kilometre stretch between Hulikal and Kudur in Ramanagara district. Her commitment to nurturing trees, which she often described as her “children,” stemmed from her experience of being childless.

Affectionately known as Saalumarada—meaning “row of trees” in Kannada—Thimmakka spent decades championing environmental conservation. Her work earned her widespread admiration and numerous awards, including the Padma Shri in 2019, the Indira Priyadarshini Vrikshamitra Award in 1997, the National Citizen Award in 1995, and the Nadoja Award from Hampi University in 2010.

Political leaders, environmentalists and public figures across India paid tribute following the announcement of her death.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed deep sorrow, saying: “I am saddened to hear of the passing of ‘Vrikshamate’ Saalumarada Thimmakka. She planted thousands of trees and cared for them like her own children. Though she has left us, her love for nature has made her immortal.”

Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka also extended condolences, calling her a source of pride for Karnataka. “She proclaimed, ‘Trees are my children’. May her soul rest in eternal peace. Let us honour her memory by following her example of serving and protecting the environment,” he said.