Story perspectives

Environmental Pioneer Saalumarada Thimmakka Dies at 113

2/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

Saalumarada Thimmakka, an Indian environmentalist, died on November 14 in Bengaluru at age 113.
She gained fame for planting thousands of trees and turning infertility into an environmental legacy.
Thimmakka began planting in 1948 after facing stigma in her community.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised her contributions, noting that her trees symbolize dedication and potential for real change.
Her work shifted perceptions of environmentalism in India.

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Story summary

Saalumarada Thimmakka, an Indian environmentalist, died on November 14 in Bengaluru at age 113.
She gained fame for planting thousands of trees and turning infertility into an environmental legacy.
Thimmakka began planting in 1948 after facing stigma in her community.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised her contributions, noting that her trees symbolize dedication and potential for real change.
Her work shifted perceptions of environmentalism in India.