Her name is Thimmakka. (Akka means elder sister). She is 107 years old She wanted to die at the age of 40 as she could not conceive. She found a purpose and along with her husband planted 8000 banyan trees and nurtured it by walking 4 km daily after working in the fields to water the plants. Affectionately called Salu Marada Thimmakka. (Saalu = In a line, Mara = Tree).
She and her late husband planted banyan trees for an entire four kilometer stretch in Karnataka, and took care of them like children. Growing banyan trees is not a joke when you have to water them frequently in a relatively dry area.
This woman, who dedicated her life for environment, got a Padma Shri from the President.
When was the last time you saw a Padma awardee receiving an award in barefoot? What an inspiration!
Nita Padamsee shares this incredible story. Many thanks, Nita!
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