Synopsis
A bird-eye-view of this location in Andhra Pradesh’s Anantapur will tell you of the presence of a dense forest. But once you go on the ground, the reality of this forest will astonish you.
Photo courtesy: ananthapuramu.ap.gov.in
A bird-eye-view of this location in Andhra Pradesh’s Anantapur will tell you of the presence of a dense forest. But once you go on the ground, the reality of this forest will astonish you. Sitting here is Thimmamma Marrimanu, or Thimmamma’s Banyan Tree, which is the world’s largest single-tree canopy. What you thought was a forest, is really one single Banyan tree that is spread over 5 acres of land.
Thimmamma Marrimanu finds mention in Guinness Book of World Records. It found a mention in this book in the year 1989. Since then, the tree has been an enigma to one and all. It’s after all, extraordinary, beyond measure.
A symbol of eternal life, Thimmamma Marrimanu is said to be more than 550 years old, and the story behind its existence is a fascinating one. According to legends, Thimmamma was the name of a woman who practiced the ancient custom of Sati. The custom would see women throwing themselves into the funeral pyre of their husbands. So after it was done, the tree supposedly came to life in the northeastern pole of that pyre. It is believed that their souls grew into this tree.
Today, the tree is more than just a tree. Its age and the story behind its origin has led to a cult following. The tree today is worshipped by the local community. Today a temple sits at its centre, which is dedicated to Thimmamma. People come here to offer prayers, irrespective of their religion, caste, or culture. The central deity of this temple is Goddess Ammavaru.
Since the beginning of its existence, pilgrims have been coming here to worship, seeking blessings for marriage and children.Under the shade of Thimmamma Marrimanu, there is certainly a moment of peace, there is spirituality, wisdom, and history. The tree is growing wider every day, spreading its roots, grasping earth, and blessing its devotees.
