The Karnataka government has announced plans to establish a museum honouring the legacy of legendary environmentalist Saalumarada Thimmakka, fulfilling the last wish of the Padma Shri awardee who passed away at the remarkable age of 114. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah confirmed the state's commitment to preserving Thimmakka's extraordinary environmental legacy.
A Life Dedicated to Nature
Saalumarada Thimmakka, affectionately known as the 'Tree Woman of India', breathed her last on Friday, November 15, 2025. The celebrated environmentalist gained nationwide recognition for her exceptional afforestation efforts, particularly in her native village in south Karnataka's Ramanagara region.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed profound grief at Thimmakka's passing, stating in his condolence message: "I am deeply saddened to hear the news of the demise of Saalumarada Thimmakka. Thimmakka, who planted thousands of trees and nurtured them like her own children, dedicated most of her life to environmental conservation."
From Personal Loss to Environmental Legacy
Thimmakka's remarkable journey began with personal tragedy. Married at just 12 years old to Sri Bikkala Chikkayya, the couple remained childless. Instead of succumbing to despair, Thimmakka channeled her maternal instincts toward nature, beginning an extraordinary environmental mission that would define her legacy.
She famously transformed her personal sorrow into environmental action, stating at an award event: "Instead of worrying over not having a baby, I decided to love, care, and nurture plants. Soon, I had 10 plants as my children and started nurturing them and continued to plant and take care of trees."
Her most celebrated achievement includes planting and nurturing 483 banyan trees along a 5-kilometer highway stretch near her village. She later expanded her family by adopting a child, proving that love and care know no biological boundaries.
National Recognition and Lasting Impact
Thimmakka's extraordinary contributions to environmental conservation earned her numerous accolades throughout her long life. Her achievements include:
- Padma Shri award in 2019 for afforestation efforts
- Nadoja Award and Karnataka Kalpavalli Award
- Godfrey Phillip Award for social achievement
- Honorary doctorate from Central University of Karnataka in 2020
Her life story inspired a Kannada film titled 'Thimakka and her 284 children', which was featured in an international film festival in India. Beyond environmental work, Thimmakka leveraged her influence to advocate for improved healthcare systems in rural areas and water conservation initiatives.
Thimmakka's funeral was conducted with full state honours on Saturday afternoon in her village, reflecting the immense respect she commanded. Her enduring message to humanity remains: "When a baby is born, plant a tree and save our environment."
The proposed museum will serve as a permanent tribute to her extraordinary life and environmental legacy, ensuring that future generations remember and draw inspiration from her remarkable contribution to India's ecological heritage.
