Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep condolences on the passing of Padma Shri awardee and renowned environmentalist Tulsi Gowda, hailing her as a “guiding light for environmental conservation.” In a heartfelt message shared on social media, PM Modi described her dedication to nature as an inspiration for future generations.
On Tuesday, the Prime Minister posted a picture on the social media platform X, showing himself seeking blessings from Tulsi Gowda. He wrote, “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 conservation. Her work will continue to inspire generations to protect our planet. Condolences to her family and admirers. Om Shanti.”
Political Leaders Pay Tribute To A Legendary Environmentalist
Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy, also mourned her loss, calling her “Mother Tulsi Gowda.” In his tribute, he said, “I am deeply saddened to hear the news of Mother Tulsi Gowda’s demise. She considered nature divine and dedicated her life to nurturing countless saplings into full-grown trees. Her invaluable contribution leaves an inspiring legacy for future generations. I pray for eternal peace for her soul and strength for her family and admirers.”
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Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also honored her life’s work in environmental conservation. He said, “I am saddened by the passing of environmentalist Tulsi Gowda from Honnalli in Ankola taluk. Despite working as a daily wage laborer in the Forest Department, her dedication to planting and nurturing trees continued even after retirement, earning her the prestigious Padma Shri award. Remembering her immense love for the environment, I pray for eternal peace for the departed soul.”
BJP State President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra praised her unmatched efforts, noting, “Known as ‘Vruksha Mata’ (Mother of Trees), Tulsi Gowda planted and nurtured over one lakh saplings. The Government of India recognized her dedication by conferring the Padma Shri and Rajyotsava awards. May God give strength to her family and admirers to bear this loss, and may her soul rest in eternal peace.”
Tulsi Gowda’s Lifelong Dedication To Nature
Tulsi Gowda, affectionately known as “Vruksha Maate” (Mother of Trees), passed away on Monday at the age of 86 at her home in Honnalli village, Karwar district, Karnataka. She had been battling age-related ailments.
Born in 1944, Tulsi Gowda grew up in the forests of Karnataka, developing an early connection to nature. By the age of 12, her passion for plants and trees was already evident. Throughout her life, she planted and nurtured hundreds of thousands of saplings, transforming barren land into lush green spaces. Local environmentalists even called her the “encyclopedia of forests.”
Her knowledge of over 300 indigenous plant species and her ability to cultivate forests on barren land set her apart. After losing her husband at a young age, she worked as a daily wage laborer in the Forest Department. Supporting her two children while continuing her mission of afforestation. Tulsi Gowda spent over six decades planting and nurturing more than 30,000 saplings annually, leaving behind an invaluable ecological legacy.
Honors And Recognition
Her tireless work earned her widespread recognition, including the Padma Shri award in 2021 and an honorary doctorate from Dharwad Agricultural University.
Tulsi Gowda is survived by her two children and four grandchildren, leaving behind a profound legacy that will inspire future generations to protect and nurture the environment.
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