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 kilometre 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.
Today, 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 award in barefoot? What an inspiration???
Moreover the simple noble lady also blessed the President while receiving the award… Touching!!!!
