The Thimmamma Marrimanu banyan tree (species of Ficus benghalensis), 70km away from Horsely Hills, located near Kadiri in Anantapur district, Telangana state, S. India, is considered one of the largest trees in the world by canopy coverage. Recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records in 1989, it spans over 5 acres (about 19,107 square meters) and has a circumference of 846 meters, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle. With more than 1,100 aerial roots extending from the main branches to the ground, the tree forms a sprawling network that provides a massive shade canopy, making it a tranquil spot for visitors to enjoy its cool shade. This 700 plus year old verdant tree attracts lot of trees. The local term in Telugu marri" means "banyan" and "manu" means"trees".
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| Thimmamma Marrimanu banyan tree Telangana state, Bing.com |
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| Thimmamma Marrimanu banyan tree, Telangana Bing.com |
According to local folklore, the tree’s origin is deeply tied to a tale of devotion and sacrifice. Thimmamma, the woman for whom the tree is named, was the daughter of a Setti Balija couple, Sennakka Venkatappa and Thimmamma, born around 1394. She married Bala Veerayya, a man who later suffered a prolonged illness. When he passed away, Thimmamma, heartbroken, chose to perform sati, an ancient practice where a widow would join her deceased husband on the funeral pyre. It is believed that from the spot where she sacrificed herself, a banyan sapling sprouted, eventually growing into this monumental tree. For many local people, the tree is sacred, and they believe Thimmamma’s spirit still blesses it. Incidentally, it was colonial officer Gov. Gen. William Bentinck who abolished ''sati', an unwanted custom prevalent among a section of Hindu community in the by-gone era.
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| location map, Telangana rontline.thehindu.com |
On the occasion of Shivaratri, a major Hindu festival, a jatara (fair) is held at the site, drawing a large crowd. During this festival, people from across Andhra Pradesh and neighboring states visit the site to worship Thimmamma, honoring her devotion and sacrifice.
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| largest banyan tree, Telangana. Notice board.www.bing.com |
The Thimmamma Marrimanu banyan tree represents a rare convergence of natural wonder and cultural heritage. Not only does it offer a unique natural experience with its vast expanse and cool, shaded area, but it also stands as a symbol of resilience and devotion, embodying the spirit of Thimmamma’s legend and the historical practice of sati. Visitors often leave awed by both the sheer size of the tree and the depth of its cultural resonance.
Since 1018 its has been under the management of Telangana Forest department. Conservationists and heritage lovers gave a new lease of life to this age-old tree which was on the brink of slow death due overgrowth and other factors.
https://historicalplacesandtemples.wordpress.com/about-thimmamma-marrimanu/
The Hindu Sunday Magazine (Tiruchi Edition): dated Jan. 19, 2020:: ''Addressing the root of the problem''
https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/8274938273148772169/8489617044168915422
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