Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)

Udupi, Jul 23: 106-year-old renowned environmentalist Saalumarada Thimmakka visited Udupi on Saturday July 22 and participated as chief guest in ‘Hejje Gurutu', an interview programme conducted by Being Social group of Udupi.

This was the fourth episode of ‘Hejje Gurutu’.

The programme was jointly organized by Being Social and Trisha Classes in association with MGM College Udupi. Principal of MGM College Kusuma Kamath was the chief guest.

Speaking on occasion, she said, “Saalumarada Thimmakka has dedicated her life for the betterment of nature. Though she is 106 years old, she is still struggling for the environmental protection.” She also appealed the gathering to join hands in environmental protection.

CA Gopalkrishna Bhat, founder Trisha Classes appreciated Being Social team for organizing such valuable programme. He said, “We may have money, but money cannot buy air and water. People like Saalumarada Thimmakka are protecting earth from becoming a desert.”

Another guest Amruth Shenoy, Syndicate member of Mangalore University said, “We are privileged to have Saalumarada Thimmakka with us today. If we are unable to do anything for protecting nature, we at least need to recognize and support people who are protecting the environment.”

Thimmakka released a special song made on her life during the programme.

Shedding a light on her personal journey as environmentalist, Saalumarad Thimmakka says, “We did not have children for many years after marriage. To overcome this, we decided to plant trees and took care of them as our children.”

Thimmakka and her husband have planted 384 banyan trees in stretch of 4 kms between Hulikal to Kudur.

Thimmakka’s adopted son Umesh has also joined her and helps her in interviews. Avinash Kamath, founder of Being Social compered the programme.

A good number of people had gathered to witness 106-year-old Thimmakka.