Tulsi Gowda, affectionately known as the “Mother of Trees,” left behind a legacy that speaks volumes about her unparalleled dedication to environmental conservation.
Her life journey, deeply rooted in the soil of Karnataka, was a testament to the power of an individual to transform barren landscapes into thriving forests. At 86, she passed away in Honnali village, Ankola Taluk, Uttara Kannada district, leaving the world a greener and more inspired place.
Hailing from the Halakki tribal community, Tulsi Gowda spent over six decades tirelessly working to protect and nurture the environment. She planted and cared for lakhs of trees, earning her the title “Encyclopaedia of Plants” due to her vast knowledge of local flora.
Even as the world mourns her passing, her extraordinary contributions continue to inspire generations to connect with and protect nature.
A Lifelong Devotion to Nature
Tulsi Gowda’s story began in 1944 in a modest tribal family in Karnataka. Her connection with nature blossomed during her childhood, as she grew up surrounded by the verdant forests of Ankola.
Financial hardships led her to start working at a forest department nursery as a daily wage laborer. However, what began as a means of livelihood soon turned into a passionate mission to restore and conserve the natural world.
With no formal education, Tulsi Gowda’s knowledge of plants came from her innate curiosity and a deep bond with the earth. Over the years, she became an invaluable resource for the forest department, sharing her insights on plant species, soil conditions, and nurturing techniques. Her dedication and expertise earned her the respect of her peers and the love of her community.
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The “Mother of Trees” wasn’t just a planter of saplings; she was a nurturer of life. Every tree she planted was cared for as though it were her child. Her ability to ensure the survival and growth of saplings in challenging conditions made her an irreplaceable figure in afforestation efforts.
Deeply saddened by the passing of Smt. Tulsi Gowda Ji, a revered environmentalist from Karnataka and Padma Awardee. She dedicated her life to nurturing nature, planting thousands of saplings, and conserving our environment. She will remain a guiding light for environmental… pic.twitter.com/FWjsvroMty
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 17, 2024
Beyond her technical contributions, Tulsi Gowda’s work symbolized the harmony between humanity and nature, a relationship that is often overlooked in modern times.
Recognitions and Honors
Despite her extraordinary contributions, Tulsi Gowda remained a humble figure, quietly working in the background until her efforts were nationally recognized.
In 2021, she was conferred the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian awards, by former President Ram Nath Kovind. This accolade brought her decades of silent work into the spotlight, introducing her to a wider audience who marveled at her achievements.
The Padma Shri was not the only recognition she received. Dharwad Agricultural University awarded her an honorary doctorate, acknowledging her unparalleled expertise in botany and conservation.
The Indira Priyadarshini Vriksha Mitra award and other local and national accolades celebrated her unwavering commitment to afforestation. These awards, while significant, could not fully encapsulate the impact of her work on both local ecosystems and the broader movement for environmental preservation.
Tulsi Gowda’s contributions were not limited to planting trees. She was also an educator and motivator, often sharing her knowledge with young environmentalists, forest officials, and local communities. Her life became a beacon for those seeking to understand and combat deforestation, inspiring a new generation to take up the mantle of conservation.
A Legacy That Lives On
Tulsi Gowda’s passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy will continue to inspire environmental efforts worldwide. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his tribute, called her a “guiding light for environmental conservation” and an inspiration for future generations. Such sentiments resonate with the countless people whose lives she touched, directly or indirectly.
Her children and grandchildren now inherit not just her personal legacy but also her mission to care for the environment. The forests she helped create and restore stand as living monuments to her work, providing shelter for wildlife, improving air quality, and offering beauty to all who encounter them.
As the world faces escalating environmental challenges, Tulsi Gowda’s life reminds us of the profound impact of individual action. Her efforts underscore the importance of grassroots conservation movements led by passionate individuals who understand the intricacies of their local ecosystems.
Tulsi Gowda’s story is not merely one of environmental success but also of resilience, humility, and a profound connection to the earth. It is a story that will continue to inspire and educate, ensuring that her message of harmony with nature lives on.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏