Saalumarada Thimmakka

Saalumarada Thimmakka, born on June 30, 1911, in India, is celebrated as a pioneering environmentalist whose dedication to nature has left an indelible mark on the landscape of the Ramanagara district. Despite having no formal education, Thimmakka's passion for the environment led her to plant nearly eight thousand trees along a stretch of highway between Hulikal and Kudur, showcasing her commitment to reforestation and ecological preservation.

Her remarkable contributions to environmental conservation have not gone unnoticed. In recognition of her tireless efforts, she was honored with the National Citizen's Award of India and was conferred with the prestigious Padma Shri in 2019 by the Government of India. Her legacy continues to inspire future generations, as evidenced by the establishment of Thimmakka's Resources for Environmental Education, a US-based organization dedicated to environmental awareness.

In 2020, the Central University of Karnataka announced an honorary doctorate for Thimmakka, further solidifying her status as a revered figure in environmental activism. Thimmakka's life journey is a testament to the power of individual action in the face of adversity, as she worked as a casual laborer in a nearby quarry before becoming a symbol of ecological stewardship.

Thimmakka passed away in Bengaluru on November 14, 2025, at the remarkable age of one hundred fourteen, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire environmentalists and nature lovers alike.