Oopiri, designed by Rashmi  V, Preksha Jain and Ashvitha A, students of Diploma in Fashion Design June 2022 at JD Institute of Fashion Technology for JD Design Awards 2023, paid tribute to environmentalist Saalumarada Thimmakka.

Saalumarada Thimmakka also known as Aala Marada Thimmakka, is from the state of Karnataka and is noted for her work in planting and tendering 385 banyan trees between  Hulikal and Kudur. She has also planted 8000 trees of other varieties. Saalumarada is a Kannada word, meaning rows of trees and Thimmakka is her name. Oopiri means ‘breath’ or ‘breathing,’ metaphorically relates to Saalumarada Thimmakka as it reflects her tree planting and conservation efforts which is a lifeline for the environment.  

The young fashion designers created an A-line silhouette for women. The spring-summer 2024 ready-to-wear collection, with neutral colours was influenced by nature. They have also used embroidery inspired by Saalumarada Thimmakka’s life.