Bengaluru : Renowned environmentalist and Padma Shri awardee Saalumarada Thimmakka (114), passed away this morning. She had been receiving treatment at Apollo Hospital, Jayanagar, Bengaluru, since Nov. 2 after being admitted due to respiratory complications.

Despite sustained medical efforts, Thimmakka, fondly known as ‘Vrukshamate’ (Mother of Trees) did not recover and passed away during treatment.

Born in Gubbi taluk of Tumakuru district, Karnataka, her journey from poverty to becoming a globally recognised environmentalist remains a profound inspiration. Her life’s work stands as a testament to resilience, commitment and purpose.

Forced to drop out of school at a young age to help her family with farm work, Thimmakka nevertheless nurtured a deep love for nature, spending much of h

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