Saalumarada Thimmakka Passes Away at 114 The Legacy of India’s Mother of Trees
India has lost one of its most inspiring environmental icons. Saalumarada Thimmakka, lovingly known as the Mother of Trees, passed away on 14 November 2025 at the age of 114. Her journey—from a humble village woman to a globally respected environmentalist—is a story that will continue to motivate generations
Thimmakka was born on 30 June 1911 in Gubbi, Karnataka. With no formal education and limited resources, she spent much of her early life working as a daily wage labourer. Married to Chikkaiah of Hulikal village, the couple was unable to have children. But instead of breaking down, Thimmakka transformed her pain into purpose.
What she did next made her a legend.
From Childlessness to Nurturing Hundreds of Trees
Saalumarada Thimmakka and her husband began planting banyan saplings along a barren stretch of road between Hulikal and Kudur. What started as a small, personal project soon became a lifelong mission.
Over the years, the couple planted and cared for 385 banyan trees along a 4.5-km stretch. These trees—now massive giants offering shade, oxygen, and habitat—stand as living proof of what dedication and compassion can achieve.
Thimmakka didn’t just plant trees; she nurtured them like her own children. She carried water for miles during harsh summers, protected the saplings from animals, and monitored their growth daily. Her work was not funded, not recognized at the time, and not done for publicity. It was pure love for nature.
Later in life, she expanded her environmental work by planting over 8,000 other trees in the region. Her contribution to India’s ecological health is immeasurable.
National & Global Recognition
For decades, her story remained unknown outside Karnataka. But once it came to light, the country honored her with several prestigious awards. The most notable recognition came in 2019, when the Government of India awarded her the Padma Shri, one of the nation’s highest civilian honors.
She was also celebrated by international organizations, environmental groups, NGOs, and global conservation leaders. Schools, colleges, and young environmentalists across India began studying her work and drawing inspiration from her life.
Thimmakka became a symbol of how one person’s dedication can create real, lasting change.
Her Final Days and Passing
In the months leading up to her death, Thimmakka’s health had been declining. She was undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Bengaluru. On 14 November 2025, she breathed her last, leaving behind a legacy rooted in love, resilience, and environmental stewardship.
The news of her passing triggered an outpouring of grief across India. Leaders, environmentalists, students, and citizens expressed deep respect for the woman who devoted her entire life to nature.
Why Thimmakka’s Legacy Will Never Die
Even though she is no longer with us, Saalumarada Thimmakka’s legacy will continue to shape the future.
- She showed that environmental change begins with one person.
Her entire mission started with a single sapling, planted with hope and care. - She proved that education or wealth is not necessary to create impact.
Thimmakka had no formal schooling, yet she influenced environmental policy and global climate conversations. - She taught the value of nurturing.
In a world driven by speed and consumption, she reminded us that growth takes time, patience, and love. - Her banyan avenue is a living memorial.
Those 385 majestic trees will continue to provide shade, oxygen, beauty, and biodiversity for decades—if not centuries.
- She inspired a movement.
Generations of environmentalists in Karnataka and beyond credit Thimmakka as their role model.
“A Message for Today’s Generation”
In times when climate change, pollution, and deforestation threaten our ecological balance, Thimmakka’s story becomes even more important. She didn’t wait for the government. She didn’t wait for funds. She didn’t wait for recognition.She simply started planting.
One tree at a time. Her life teaches us that small steps matter, and individual action can become a nationwide movement.
Conclusion: My Final Thought
Saalumarada Thimmakka’s passing marks the end of an extraordinary life, but her work continues to breathe through the banyan trees she nurtured. She remains a timeless symbol of hope, dedication, and environmental responsibility.
India did not just lose an environmentalist—India lost a mother, a guardian of nature, and a beacon of selfless service.
May her soul rest in peace.
May her trees stand tall forever.