Also known as ‘Encyclopedia of Forest’, Tulasi Gowda has been awarded the Padma Shri. Gowda has nurtured more than 40,000 trees so far. Even at the age of 72 years, she is determined to plant saplings and nurture them like her children, till they grow into trees.
Tulasi has been working for mother nature for the past six decades. An article in Deccan Herald mentioned,
“According to local residents, she was actively involved in the afforestation programme conducted by the forest department. Recognising her service, the department regularised her service. After serving for 14 years, she retired from service. The pension is her only source of livelihood.”
Tulasi is knowledgable about the minutest detail of every sapling that she has planted. From the duration it will take to grow, to the amount of water required, to its usage, her knowledge of plants is no less than any expert. Despite no formal education in botany, Tulasi has turned no stone unturned in creating awareness among people about conservation of forests.
Born and brought up in extreme poverty in a backward community, Tulasi has never let her economic status deter her from saving nature.
As her father died when she was only two years old, she was unable to receive any education because of a lack of finances. She has been working with her mother, a daily wage worker, since her childhood. She was married to Govinde Gowda at a young age but he also died soon.
During the times when the earth is at the highest risk of being destroyed, we need more people like Tulasi Gowda who understands the power of conserving our nature for the coming generation. At IFORHER, we congratulate Tulasi and hope her determination will inspire many more to save the world!