Wed Jan 14 19:02:33 UTC 2026: # Environmentalist G. Rajkumar, Champion of Neelakurinji, Passes Away at 70
The Story
G. Rajkumar, a former bank employee who dedicated his life to environmental conservation, particularly the protection of the Neelakurinji flower (Strobilanthes kunthiana) and its habitat, passed away in Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday morning, January 14, 2026, at the age of 70. Known as “Kurinji Rajkumar,” he spearheaded the Save Kurinji Campaign, which played a critical role in raising awareness about the ecological importance of the Neelakurinji grasslands.
Rajkumar’s passion for the Neelakurinji began in September 1982, after learning about their blooming in the hills from Munnar to Kodaikanal. This led to a pivotal trek with naturalist Suresh Elamon, environmentalist K.V. Surendranath, and Velayudhan Pillai, poet Sugathakumari’s husband, which ultimately led to the formation of the Save Kurinji Campaign. The campaign’s efforts culminated in the establishment of the 32-sq.km Neelakurinji Sanctuary in the Kottakamboor–Vattavada region on October 6, 2006.
Key Points
- G. Rajkumar, the driving force behind the Save Kurinji Campaign, passed away on January 14, 2026.
- He was instrumental in raising awareness about the Neelakurinji flower and its ecosystem.
- The Save Kurinji Campaign was launched after a trek in 1982.
- His efforts led to the establishment of the Neelakurinji Sanctuary in 2006.
- Rajkumar served as the coordinator of the Save Kurinji Campaign Council.
Key Takeaways
- The dedication of individuals can significantly impact environmental conservation efforts.
- The Save Kurinji Campaign serves as a model for grassroots environmental movements.
- The establishment of the Neelakurinji Sanctuary is a lasting legacy of Rajkumar’s work.
- Environmental campaigns often require sustained effort over decades to achieve meaningful results.
- The story highlights the importance of biodiversity and the need to protect fragile ecosystems.
First Piper 