The story of Saalumarada Thimmakka is not just an inspiring tale of environmental conservation but also a testament to human perseverance and love. This remarkable woman, who began planting trees in the absence of her own offspring, has since become a beacon for environmentalists worldwide.
Who is Saalumarada Thimmakka?
Born in Karnataka, India, Saalumarada Thimmakka is an iconic figure in the realm of environmental conservation. At the impressive age of 112, her contributions to nature and society have not waned. Despite having no formal education and working as a casual laborer, her passion for the environment was undeterred.
Why is She Recognized Worldwide?
Thimmakka’s most notable achievement is the planting and nurturing of 385 banyan trees across a 45 km stretch between Hulikal and Kudur. With the support of her husband, she has also planted around 8,000 other trees. Such is her impact that an environmental organization in the US named Thimmakka’s Resources for Environmental Education was founded in her honor.
What Inspired Thimmakka to Plant Trees?
The motivation behind her green crusade is deeply personal. Thimmakka and her husband were unable to have children. The void this left in her life was filled by the planting of trees. The banyans, which she started planting in the absence of her offspring, became symbolic children to her, nurturing them as she would have her own child.
How Has India Recognized Her Efforts?
For her remarkable contributions, Thimmakka was honored with the National Citizen’s Award of India. But it truly is now not all; in popularity of her ceaseless efforts closer to environmental conservation, the Government of India conferred upon her the celebrated Padma Shri in 2019. The ceremony, a widespread event in India’s calendar, came about at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, wherein she became supplied the award by President Shri Ram Nath Kovind on March 16, 2019. Moreover, in 2020, the Central University of Karnataka awarded her an honorary doctorate.
What’s the Current State of Thimmakka’s Health?
On October 3, Thimmakka was hospitalized after expressing feelings of fatigue and breathlessness. Currently, she’s under the watchful care of doctors at Apollo Hospital, Jayanagar’s Intensive Care Unit. Her age, notably her extreme old age, has posed a unique challenge to her doctors, particularly with respect to the administration of medication due to her history of asthma.
What Do the Doctors Say?
The pulmonologist treating Thimmakka assures that her condition is stable. With her known history of asthma, there’s a keen focus on her respiratory health. The doctors have voiced, “She has a known history of asthma, but there is nothing to be concerned about, as of now. We will continue to monitor her condition for another 2-3 days.”
What Does Thimmakka Represent?
Saalumarada Thimmakka is not just a name but an embodiment of love, resilience, and environmental stewardship. Her life serves as a beacon, reminding us that individual efforts can indeed make a world of difference. Whether she was planting trees or inspiring millions, Thimmakka’s story showcases the indomitable spirit of humanity and the boundless love one can have for nature. As we wish her a speedy recovery, let us also remember to play our part in preserving the world for generations to come.
