A life rooted in environmental devotion
Legacy of Saalumarada Thimmakka: Saalumarada Thimmakka’s legacy stands as one of India’s most remarkable examples of grassroots environmental activism. Her lifelong dedication to tree planting transformed her into a symbol of ecological commitment. Born in 1911, she spent decades nurturing trees despite having no formal education, proving that impactful environmental leadership often emerges from lived experience rather than institutional training.
Static GK fact: India celebrates National Forest Martyrs Day on 11 September to honour those who protect forests.
A journey that created a living forest
Her most celebrated contribution was the planting and nurturing of 385 banyan trees along a 4.5 km stretch between Hulikal and Kudur in Karnataka’s Ramanagara district. This effort earned her the name ‘Saalumarada’, meaning “row of trees,” perfectly capturing the green corridor she created. The banyan tree, considered India’s national tree, added cultural and ecological significance to her mission.
Static GK Tip: The banyan tree was declared India’s national tree in 1950 due to its longevity and extensive canopy.
Honours that reflected her influence
Thimmakka received national and state-level recognition for her extraordinary work. She was awarded the Padma Shri in 2019, a milestone honour acknowledging her contribution to environmental protection. Other awards included the Nadoja Award from Hampi University, the National Citizen Award, and the Indira Priyadarshini Vrikshamitra Award. These recognitions brought national visibility to the role of community-led afforestation.
Static GK fact: The Padma Awards are announced annually on the eve of Republic Day.
Final days and tributes across Karnataka
The 114-year-old environmentalist passed away in Bengaluru after a period of illness. Her death prompted widespread tributes, with public figures, environmental groups, and local communities recalling the emotional bond she shared with the trees she nurtured. Many highlighted how her work strengthened environmental awareness long before climate action became a mainstream discussion.
State leadership pays homage
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed deep grief over her passing, describing her as a figure whose love for nature transcended generations. He noted that the state had lost not just a conservationist but a guiding light who showed how individual efforts can create lasting ecological impact.
Static GK Tip: Karnataka is home to major biodiversity hotspots, including parts of the Western Ghats, one of the world’s eight “hottest hotspots” of biological diversity.
Her legacy for future environmental efforts
Thimmakka’s life remains a reminder of how consistent effort, even when begun with limited resources, can shape environmental history. Her banyan rows continue to stand as a living tribute to her mission, inspiring afforestation drives across India. For competitive exam aspirants, her story is an essential example of people-led conservation and sustainable community practices.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Legacy of Saalumarada Thimmakka:
| Topic | Detail |
| Full name | Saalumarada Thimmakka |
| Birth year | 1911 |
| Key contribution | Planting 385 banyan trees along a 4.5 km stretch |
| Location of work | Hulikal to Kudur, Ramanagara district |
| Major national award | Padma Shri (2019) |
| Other recognitions | Nadoja Award, National Citizen Award, Indira Priyadarshini Vrikshamitra Award |
| Age at passing | 114 years |
| Place of passing | Bengaluru, Karnataka |
| Title meaning | ‘Saalumarada’ translates to “row of trees” |
| State tribute | Condolence message by Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah |
