Belur: Fans and admirers gathered in Belur to celebrate the 112th birth anniversary of Saalumarada Thimmakka, the esteemed environmental ambassador of the Karnataka government and recipient of the Central Padma Shri award. The celebration took place at the iconic Yagachi Sapling in Belur, where a sapling was planted to honor her remarkable contributions to the environment.
Saalumarada Thimmakka, fondly known as Vrikshamata (Mother of Trees) in Karnataka, currently resides in Ballur village, Belur taluk. To commemorate her special day, she personally planted a sapling in the serene surroundings near the Yagachi reservoir in Belur. The event was attended by notable personalities including Belur Tahsildar M. Mamatha, Mayor Theerthakumari Venkatesh, President of Thimmakka International Foundation Ballur Umesh, young entrepreneur B.M. Santhosh, and others. Dr. Rajkumar Fans Association President Tirthankar and other well-wishers also graced the occasion.
Tahsildar M. Mamatha, addressing the gathering, highlighted Thimmakka’s global impact as an environmental ambassador. Through her tireless efforts of planting and nurturing countless trees, she has become an inspiration to the world. Mamatha stressed the importance of Thimmakka’s long life, hoping that she continues to serve as a role model for the youth.
The government has recognized Thimmakka’s remarkable contributions by including her in a textbook on environmental studies, aimed at creating awareness among students. She has also been appointed as an ambassador by the honorable government, and various schemes have been implemented in her name. Mamatha expressed the government’s well wishes for Thimmakka’s longevity and good health in the years to come.
President of Belur Municipality, Theerthakumari Venkatesh, praised Thimmakka for her selfless service to the environment, describing it as unparalleled. Venkatesh emphasized the need for the educated individuals to acknowledge and appreciate Thimmakka’s invaluable contributions to the world. He noted that her exemplary life and dedication to society continue to inspire initiatives such as the Green Earth Foundation and the Bharat Knowledge Institute, which conduct environmental awareness campaigns.
Thimmakka’s adopted son, Ballur Umesh, is carrying forward her aspirations by making significant contributions to the environment and spreading awareness among young people in schools and colleges. Venkatesh commended Umesh’s unique efforts in line with Thimmakka’s vision.
The birth anniversary celebration of Vrikshamata Saalumarada Thimmakka served as a reminder of her remarkable journey and unwavering commitment to the environment. Her legacy continues to inspire countless individuals to work towards a greener and more sustainable future.
