The nation mourns the loss of one of India's most beloved environmental champions, Saalumarada Thimmakka, who passed away at the remarkable age of 114. The Padma awardee, affectionately known as Vruksha Mata (Mother of Trees), had been battling age-related health complications.
A Life Dedicated to Nature
Thimmakka's final days were marked by a struggle with various ailments connected to her advanced age. Medical reports confirm she was hospitalized on several recent occasions, primarily due to breathing issues that required specialized care. Her passing on November 14, 2025, marks the end of an extraordinary physical journey, but her environmental legacy promises immortality.
The Enduring Legacy of Vruksha Mata
Saalumarada Thimmakka earned the name 'Vruksha Mata' through her legendary work that transcended personal tragedy. Alongside her late husband, she found purpose in planting and nurturing hundreds of banyan trees along a barren stretch of highway in Karnataka. What began as a personal mission to create a living legacy evolved into a national inspiration for environmental conservation and community-led ecological efforts.
Her work did not go unrecognized. The Government of India honored her extraordinary contribution to environmental protection with the Padma Award, one of the country's highest civilian honors. This recognition cemented her status not just as a local hero, but as a national treasure whose simple yet powerful act of planting trees inspired millions.
An Inspiration for Generations
The story of Saalumarada Thimmakka resonates deeply because it demonstrates how individual determination can create monumental environmental change. Without substantial resources or institutional support initially, she demonstrated that caring for the planet begins with personal responsibility and consistent action.
Her life serves as a powerful reminder that environmental conservation is accessible to everyone. In an era of complex climate challenges, Thimmakka's hands-on approach to greening the planet continues to inspire new generations of environmental activists, proving that one person's dedication can indeed transform landscapes and mindsets.
While the physical presence of Saalumarada Thimmakka is no longer with us, the thousands of trees she planted stand as living monuments to her spirit. Each tree represents her unwavering belief in creating a greener world, ensuring that Vruksha Mata's legacy will continue to grow for centuries to come.
