Saalumarada Thimmakka: The Mother of 385 Banyan Trees Bids Farewell

Saalumarada Thimmakka’s life story stands as one of India’s most inspiring examples of environmental stewardship. Passing away at the age of 114, she left behind a legacy rooted in love, resilience, and a deep connection to nature. Known globally for planting and nurturing hundreds of banyan trees along a Karnataka highway, Thimmakka proved that dedicated individuals can transform landscapes and inspire generations. Her work has made her a symbol of sustainability and human–nature harmony.

Early Life and Humble Beginnings

Thimmakka was born in Gubbi taluk of Tumakuru district, Karnataka. Despite limited education and economic challenges, she remained grounded in values shaped by rural life and natural surroundings.

Key points

• Born into a modest family in Tumakuru district
• Married Bikkala Chikkayya of Hulikal village
• Faced childlessness, which later inspired her environmental mission

The Iconic Plantation on State Highway 94

Thimmakka and her husband transformed their personal grief into a mission. Over decades, the couple planted and nurtured 385 banyan trees along State Highway 94 from Kudur to Hulikal.

Significance of the plantation

• Trees were watered, protected, and tended like their own children
• Helped increase green cover along a crucial highway
• Earned her the affectionate title “Saalumarada” (meaning “row of trees” in Kannada)

Recognition, Awards, and Global Acclaim

• Her extraordinary work, despite being illiterate, placed her among India’s most respected environmental figures.

Major recognitions include,

• Padma Shri (2019) for social work and environmental conservation
• Several state and national environmental awards
• Honorary doctorate acknowledging her contribution to ecology
• Popularly known as Vriksha Mata (Mother of Trees)

Health, Final Days, and Passing

In the months leading up to her passing, Thimmakka had been hospitalised due to weakness and appetite loss. Though she briefly recovered, she passed away in a private hospital in Bengaluru on November 14, 2025.

Condolences and Public Tributes

Her death prompted heartfelt messages from leaders and environmentalists.

Highlights

• Karnataka Chief Minister praised her lifelong service, calling her “immortal” for her environmental contributions
• Environment Minister Eshwar Khandre highlighted her impact despite her lack of formal education
• Citizens across Karnataka remembered her as an inspiration for community-driven conservation

A Lasting Legacy

Thimmakka’s story continues to inspire environmental movements, schools, activists, and policymakers.

Her legacy includes,

• 385 banyan trees still thriving today
• Botanical gardens and urban forests named in her honour
• A growing awareness of community-led ecological action
• A reminder that one individual can initiate a generational shift in environmental consciousness