Saalumarada Thimmakka, one of India’s most celebrated environmentalists and a global symbol of grassroots conservation, passed away on Friday at the age of 114. She was undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Bengaluru for severe respiratory complications. Her demise marks the end of an extraordinary life dedicated to nurturing nature and inspiring generations across the world.

Thimmakka’s health had been deteriorating since October 2023, when she was admitted for recurring asthma-related issues. Doctors reported that she had been experiencing frequent breathlessness and chest discomfort. Medical investigations earlier revealed a blockage in her left anterior descending artery, for which she underwent an angioplasty. However, despite sustained medical intervention, her condition continued to weaken, leading to her peaceful passing.

Early life and journey into environmental service

Born in Gubbi taluk of Tumakuru district, Thimmakka grew up in a humble household and began her working life as a labourer in a stone quarry. Life took a meaningful turn when she and her husband, Chikkaiah, began planting trees as a way to find purpose amid personal struggles, including the inability to have children. Over time, this small initiative evolved into a mission that would place Thimmakka among the world’s most respected environmental figures.

Together, the couple planted and nurtured 385 banyan trees along a highway stretch between Hulikal and Kudur. In addition, she planted more than 8,000 other trees over the span of eight decades. Her dedication earned her the affectionate title Saalumarada—meaning “row of trees” in Kannada.

Health struggles in later years

In October 2023, Thimmakka was admitted to Apollo Specialty Hospital in Bengaluru following severe asthma exacerbations. Her condition worsened following symptoms of chest pain, prompting doctors to perform an angiogram, which revealed significant arterial blockage. A subsequent angioplasty aimed to stabilise her condition, but age-related complications and recurrent respiratory distress prevented sustained recovery.

Despite the best medical efforts, Thimmakka’s health steadily declined. Her passing was confirmed by hospital authorities, who described her as a patient of remarkable resilience and spirit.

National and global recognition

Thimmakka’s environmental contributions earned her widespread recognition, awards and academic honours. Among her most notable achievements were:

  • Padma Shri Award (2019) for distinguished service in social work
  • National Citizen’s Award (1995) acknowledging her exceptional community contribution
  • Honorary doctorate from the Central University of Karnataka in 2020
  • A US-based non-profit, “Thimmakka’s Resources for Environmental Education” in Los Angeles and Oakland, named in her honour

Her trees, often referred to as her “green children”, remain a living legacy of her devotion to the environment. Without biological children of her own, she dedicated her life to nurturing forests that today stand as ecological assets for Karnataka.

Defending the 45-km green corridor

Thimmakka’s most iconic contribution remains the 45-kilometre stretch of banyan trees between Hulikal and Kudur, which she tended for decades. Environmentalists have long called for this stretch to be declared a conservation reserve due to its ecological significance.

In 2019, when the trees came under threat from a proposed road-widening project, Thimmakka personally took the matter to then Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy and Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara. Her plea resulted in the government reconsidering the project and exploring alternate plans to protect the greenery she had nurtured.

Public impact and lasting legacy

Even after her husband’s death in 1991, Thimmakka continued her environmental efforts. She was widely celebrated across Karnataka, especially when she marked her 111th birthday at Dr B.R. Ambedkar Bhavan in Bengaluru. Citizens and environmental groups consistently hailed her as an inspiration for sustainable living and community-driven conservation.

Her life story continues to be cited in academic circles, environmental campaigns and global forums as a powerful example of how one individual’s dedication can alter landscapes and inspire change.

Conclusion

Saalumarada Thimmakka leaves behind a legacy rooted in compassion, environmental commitment and selfless service. As Karnataka mourns her loss, the thousands of trees she planted continue to stand tall, symbolising her enduring presence. Her life remains a reminder that environmental protection begins with simple actions, nurtured with love, patience and resilience.