In the heart of Karnataka, a remarkable woman has sown the seeds of change, quite literally, transforming barren landscapes into lush green corridors. Saalumarada Thimmakka, a 60+ year-old environmentalist, has been honored with the prestigious Padma Shri for her extraordinary contribution to afforestation—planting over 8,000 trees across her lifetime. Her story is not just one of environmental stewardship but a testament to resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to leaving the world better than she found it.
A Humble Beginning Rooted in Purpose
Born into a modest family in Hulikal village, Karnataka, Thimmakka’s life was marked by challenges from an early age. With no formal education and married at a young age, she faced societal pressures and personal hardships, including the inability to have children. Yet, instead of succumbing to despair, Thimmakka and her late husband, Bikkala Chikkayya, channeled their energy into a cause larger than themselves—nurturing the environment.
In the 1950s, the couple began planting banyan trees along a 4-kilometer stretch of highway between Hulikal and Kudur, a region plagued by arid conditions and sparse vegetation. What started as a small act of planting 10 trees in the first year grew into a lifelong mission. Over decades, they meticulously planted and cared for 8,000 trees, primarily banyan, which are known for their expansive canopies that provide shade, support biodiversity, and stabilize soil.
A Labor of Love and Sacrifice
Thimmakka’s work was far from easy. With no financial support or resources, she and her husband used their meager earnings to source saplings, dig pits, and water the plants in an area with scarce water availability. They carried water in pots over long distances, often walking kilometers to ensure the saplings survived. Their dedication extended beyond planting; they protected the trees from grazing animals and harsh weather, treating each one like their own child.
This nurturing spirit earned Thimmakka the affectionate title of “Saalumarada,” meaning “a row of trees” in Kannada, reflecting her monumental contribution to creating green avenues. Her efforts transformed the once-barren stretch into a thriving ecosystem, offering respite to travelers, habitat for wildlife, and a model for sustainable environmental practices.
Recognition for a Green Revolution
Thimmakka’s work has not gone unnoticed. In 2019, she was conferred the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian honor, recognizing her unparalleled contribution to environmental conservation. This accolade joined a slew of other awards, including the National Citizen’s Award and the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award, celebrating her as a beacon of grassroots environmentalism. Her story has also been featured in school curricula and documentaries, inspiring young minds to take up environmental causes.
Beyond awards, Thimmakka’s legacy lies in the tangible impact of her work. The banyan trees she planted have grown into majestic giants, reducing soil erosion, improving air quality, and providing shade in a region prone to scorching heat. These trees stand as living monuments to her vision, fostering biodiversity and serving as a reminder of the power of individual action.
Inspiring Generations
At over 60 years old, Thimmakka remains a symbol of hope and perseverance. Her story resonates deeply in a world grappling with climate change and deforestation. She has inspired countless individuals, from local farmers to global environmentalists, to take up afforestation and sustainable practices. Her work underscores that environmental change does not require wealth or education but a heart full of determination and a vision for a greener future.
Thimmakka’s influence extends beyond Karnataka. Her story has sparked initiatives across India, with communities adopting her model of afforestation to combat desertification and promote ecological balance. She has shown that one person’s resolve can ripple outwards, creating a movement that transcends borders and generations.
A Call to Action
As India faces the challenges of urbanization and environmental degradation, Saalumarada Thimmakka’s legacy serves as a clarion call for collective action. Her life reminds us that small, consistent efforts can yield monumental results. Whether it’s planting a single tree in a backyard or advocating for policy changes, every step toward sustainability counts.
Today, Thimmakka continues to live simply in her village, her spirit undeterred by age or recognition. Her message is clear: the Earth is our home, and it’s up to us to nurture it. As she once said, “Trees are like our children. If you take care of them, they will take care of you.”
Saalumarada Thimmakka’s journey from a humble villager to a global environmental icon is a powerful narrative of hope, resilience, and impact. Her 8,000 trees stand tall, not just as a canopy of green but as a legacy of love for the planet, inspiring generations to plant, protect, and preserve.
