Author: KISS Team

Nita M. Ambani, Founder and Chairperson of Reliance Foundation, was conferred the prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2025 at Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) campus here on 16^th March, 2026.

The award was presented by Nobel Laureate from Sri Lanka Prof. Mohan Munasinghe in the presence of the Founder of KIIT, KISS and KIMS Dr. Achyuta Samanta. Senior functionaries of the institutions and a large number of students and dignitaries attended the function.

The award recognized Smt Ambani’s outstanding humanitarian initiatives and her significant contributions to social development through education, healthcare, rural transformation, women empowerment and sports promotion through the Reliance Foundation.

In her acceptance speech, Smt. Ambani said that Dr. Samanta has built two modern temples of education — KIIT and KISS. These two institutions are a matter of pride for our country. She said that she feels proud to receive the prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award and added that the honour is not hers alone, but belongs to the entire team of Reliance Foundation.

Addressing the 40,000 students of KISS, she said, “I will never forget the love and affection you have given me here.” She further said that it was truly a privilege for her to visit the two remarkable institutions, KIIT and KISS.

She expressed that she was overwhelmed to come to the pious land of Lord Jagannath. She also added that Odisha has a rich culture, traditions and values, and that the people of Odisha share a deep and strong connection with nature.

She said that there is no difference between boys and girls and that whatever boys can do, girls can do as well. Advising the students, she said, “This is just the beginning, not your final goal. You should dream big, and to achieve those dreams, you must work hard with dedication.”

She further advised the students never to leave the path of righteousness. “I see the future of India here in KISS. After seeing the children here, I am confident that the future of India is bright,” she added.

The KISS Humanitarian Award, initiated in 2008 by Dr. Samanta, is the highest honour of KISS, dedicated to recognizing individuals and organizations that embody the spirit of humanitarian work worldwide. The award consists of a citation scroll and a gold-plated trophy.

The trophy symbolizes the golden heart of a humanitarian representing the virtues of purity, kindness, prosperity and hope. It features a pair of hands uplifting a heart textured with shapes resembling waving hands, signifying how dedicated efforts can transform the lives of the underprivileged and make the world a better place.

In his welcome speech, Dr. Samanta said, “Success doesn’t mean achieving things only for yourself; true success is bringing light into the lives of others.” Giving an example of Nita Ambani he said, Great initiatives never go in vain if you try with dedication. He praised Nita for her multi-dimensional social work, for which she is loved and respected by one and all. In this materialistic world, earning love and respect is not easy. However, Mrs. Ambani has earned immense love and respect from people for her noble social and humanitarian work. He thanked Mrs. Ambani for graciously accepting the KISS Humanitarian Award.

Mr. Bill Gates Honoured with the KISS Humanitarian Award 2023 for His Global Philanthropic Endeavours

Bhubaneswar, February 28, 2024: In an illustrious event held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, Mr. Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft and co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, was conferred with the KISS Humanitarian Award 2023. This accolade was in recognition of his extensive philanthropic work globally, particularly in improving healthcare, education, and his efforts to combat climate change through innovative technology, aiming to bridge the gap of inequality.

The award ceremony was marked by the virtual presence of KIIT and KISS’s faculty, students, and alumni, where Mr. Gates engaged in an insightful dialogue about gender equality, sparked by an inquiry from a KISS alumna. This interaction underscored the event’s thematic focus on inclusive and equitable progress.

Prof. Achyuta Samanta, the visionary behind KIIT, KISS, and KIMS, remarked on the occasion, “Presenting the KISS Humanitarian Award to Bill Gates is not just a recognition of his extraordinary efforts but also an affirmation of the award’s eminence. His acceptance redefines the paradigms of humanitarian excellence worldwide. We are profoundly honored to have Mr. Gates among the distinguished laureates of this award.”

In his acceptance discourse, Mr. Gates expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the honour, acknowledging the transformative initiatives of Dr. Samanta and KISS. “I am deeply thankful for this esteemed award, and for the warm reception here. The real accolade belongs to the commendable achievements of your institution,” he noted. Mr. Gates praised Dr. Samanta’s relentless pursuit of empowering indigenous communities through education, emphasizing the significance of civic participation and a community-centric educational model.

Initiated by Prof. Achyuta Samanta in 2008, the KISS Humanitarian Award stands as the pinnacle of honour by KIIT and KISS, celebrating entities and individuals exemplifying humanitarian service. The award features a citation and a gold-plated trophy, symbolizing the purity, kindness, prosperity, and hope inherent in humanitarian deeds. This trophy, showcasing hands lifting a heart, represents the impact of dedicated efforts in transforming the lives of the needy and fostering a better global community.

The ceremony was attended by distinguished guests such as Minister Counsellor Graham Mayer from the US Embassy in New Delhi, Frank Talluto, Political Officer from Hyderabad, Ananth Sukesh, Political Advisor from the US Embassy New Delhi, and Srimali Kari, Political Specialist from the US Consulate in Hyderabad, among others.

The KISS Humanitarian Award has been previously bestowed upon a diverse array of global leaders and Nobel laureates, underlining its widespread international acclaim and respect. Mr. Gates’s receipt of this prestigious award further solidifies its status as a beacon of humanitarian recognition worldwide.

Her Excellency Rachel Ruto E.G.H Receives Prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2022

Bhubaneswar, Sept 30: The First Lady Kenya, Rachel Ruto, E.G.H., was awarded the prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2022 at an event in the KISS campus that was graced by the Odisha Governor Prof Ganeshi Lal. The award recognizes her outstanding dedication to humanitarian efforts and her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of the underprivileged and underserved, particularly women, children, and vulnerable communities.

In her acceptance speech, Rachel expressed her gratitude for the warm welcome she received in Bhubaneswar and extended her thanks to the Governor and the Founder of KIIT and KISS Dr. Achyuta Samanta for their hospitality. She emphasized her eagerness to collaborate with institutions like KISS in their shared mission to create a more compassionate and equitable world. The First Lady commended the visionary work of Dr Samanta who has been instrumental in providing free education to over 40,000 underprivileged students.

Mrs. Ruto acknowledged that the award was not just a recognition of her individual efforts but also a tribute to the spirit and resilience of the Kenyan people, especially women. She pledged to continue advocating for women’s well-being, financial inclusion, access to knowledge, and livelihood initiatives through Women Economic Empowerment programs.

The Odisha Governor, in his address, praised the First Lady for her humanitarian efforts and dedication to the betterment of humanity. He commended the work of KISS and its Founder, Dr. Achyuta Samanta, in ensuring that democracy reaches every corner of society.

Dr Samanta, in his speech, greeted the Kenyan First Lady in Swahili and drew parallels between her work and the mission of KISS. He highlighted the significant impact she has made through initiatives like MaMa Doing Good, Women Economic Empowerment, and Environmental and Climate Action. He said both he and the First Lady are united in “purpose and mission” in serving the society even though they are separated by continents, describing her as his sibling, he added.

Among others, the Chancellor of KISS Deemed to be University Satya S. Tripathi; President of KIIT and KISS Saswati Bal; Kenya High Commission in India Willy K. Bett; Vice president of KIIT and KISS Umapada Bose, Secretary R N Das and other senior functionaries from both KIIT and KISS were present on the occasion.

The KISS Humanitarian Award was initiated in 2008 and is conferred annually to recognize and felicitate individuals for their exemplary and distinguished service to humanity across the globe. Notable previous awardees have hailed from five continents and include luminaries such as Madam Edna Bomo Molewa, former premier of the North-western state of South Africa Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Ham-Kee-Sun, President of Hanseo University, Mr. Anerood Jugnauth, President of the Republic of Mauritius, Rt. Hon. Lord Justice Nicholas Addison Phillips, President of the Supreme Court of UK, Lyonchhen Jigmiy Thinley, Prime Minister of Bhutan, Madam Albina Du Boisrouvray, Founder FXB International, Switzerland, Ms. Anne Margaret Fagertun Stenhammer, Regional Director of UN Women for South Asia, Ms. Ashley Judd, UNFPA Global Goodwill Ambassador, Nobel Peace Laureate His Holiness Dalai Lama and Prof Muhammad Yunus.

Renowned industrialist and philanthropist Ratan Tata, Chairman Emeritus of the Tata Group, was honored with the prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2021 on 22^nd April, 2024. The award ceremony was held at his residence in Mumbai, marking a significant recognition of his commitment to social development and exemplary corporate leadership.

The ceremony was attended by Tata Group Chairman N. Chandrasekaran and three-time Grammy Award winner Ricky Kej, among others. The award was presented by the Founder of KIIT and KISS Dr. Achyuta Samanta. Due to health reasons, Tata has been avoiding public appearances, leading to the private arrangement of the ceremony at his home.

Ratan Tata, usually reticent about accepting accolades, agreed to accept this award following a personal request from Dr. Achyuta Samanta, recognizing the importance of the KISS humanitarian honour. The award was announced in 2021, but Tata was unable to receive the award then because of the COVID pandemic.

In his acceptance, Tata expressed his gratitude towards KISS and its founder. “I am extremely happy to receive this honour. This is the most significant moment of my life”, he remarked.

“Ratan Tata is a revered name in India, and he is truly a good person. Being able to honour him today with this award is a privilege for us”, said Samanta. “Ratan Tata’s social work and leadership have been influencing me since my childhood. I have respected and liked him from a young age. My father was an employee of Tata Company. Since then, I have respected and liked Ratan Tata,” he stated. When I was just four years old, my father died in a train accident, he added.

Initiated in 2008 by Dr. Achyuta Samanta, the KISS Humanitarian Award is the highest honour of KIIT and KISS dedicated to recognizing individuals and organizations that embody the spirit of humanitarian work worldwide. Previous recipients of this prestigious award include a diverse group of global leaders, Nobel laureates, and notable figures from various sectors, showcasing the award’s broad international appeal and respect. On the occasion, around 40,000 students of KISS wished Ratan Tata a healthy, long, and disease-free life.

The President of the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) Dr. Ary S Graça was conferred the prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2020 in recognition of his outstanding contribution towards the promotion of the game across the world on 4^th October 2024. The award was given away by the Governor of Odisha Sri  Raghubar Das in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha Sri Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo. Although the award was announced in 2020, Dr. Graça was unable to receive it at that time due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Governor, in his speech, admired Dr. Graca’s commitment to promoting volleyball throughout the world and bringing a positive change to society through the game. He said that the KISS Humanitarian Award reflects humanitarian and social values, encouraging individuals working in these fields worldwide to strive for further achievements. Mr Singh Deo, on the other hand, congratulated Dr. Graça for the award and lauded the efforts of Dr. Samanta for instituting the KISS humanitarian award.

During the event, Dr. Achyuta Samanta, the Founder of KIIT and KISS and former president of the Volleyball Federation of India, provided insights about Dr. Graça, noting that the 81-year-old Brazilian has served as the FIVB President for over 12 years. In fact, FIVB is the largest sports federation in the world, with 222 member nations. Samanta expressed pride in Dr. Graça receiving the KISS Humanitarian Award, highlighting it as a symbol of recognition for efforts made in humanitarian and social fields globally.

Dr. Graça had always admired Dr. Samanta’s efforts to develop volleyball in the country and came to India for the first time specifically to receive the award. Dr.  Graça said his primary aim through the game is to bring peace and harmony across the world. “My passion is to continue to cherish the values of empowerment, teamwork, and opportunities and serve the world through volleyball”, he added.

Notably, the KISS Humanitarian Award has previously been conferred upon various distinguished global leaders, Nobel laureates, and notable figures across multiple fields, underscoring its international significance and prestige.

His Excellency Dr. Dansa Kourouma Honoured with KISS Humanitarian Award 2019 for His Exceptional Contributions

Bhubaneswar, 25th January: His Excellency Dr. Dansa Kourouma, the esteemed President of the National Transition Council of Guinea, was felicitated with the KISS Humanitarian Award 2019 in a distinguished ceremony held in Bhubaneswar. The event saw the convergence of notable personalities, including Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT & KISS, who presented the award to His Excellency amidst the esteemed presence of Saswati Bal, President of KIIT & KISS; Umapada Bose, Vice President; and R. N. Dash, Secretary of KIIT & KISS.

In his heartfelt acceptance speech, His Excellency Dr. Kourouma extolled Bhubaneswar, celebrating its ethos of happiness, spirituality, and devotion, and underscored the deep-rooted historical connections between India and Guinea. He lauded the remarkable strides made by KIIT and KISS, applauding Dr. Achyuta Samanta’s unyielding dedication, compassion, and commitment to social upliftment.

His Excellency Dr. Dansa Kourouma Honoured with KISS Humanitarian Award 2019 for His Exceptional Contributions

Bhubaneswar, 25th January: His Excellency Dr. Dansa Kourouma, the esteemed President of the National Transition Council of Guinea, was felicitated with the KISS Humanitarian Award 2019 in a distinguished ceremony held in Bhubaneswar. The event saw the convergence of notable personalities, including Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT & KISS, who presented the award to His Excellency amidst the esteemed presence of Saswati Bal, President of KIIT & KISS; Umapada Bose, Vice President; and R. N. Dash, Secretary of KIIT & KISS.
In his heartfelt acceptance speech, His Excellency Dr. Kourouma extolled Bhubaneswar, celebrating its ethos of happiness, spirituality, and devotion, and underscored the deep-rooted historical connections between India and Guinea. He lauded the remarkable strides made by KIIT and KISS, applauding Dr. Achyuta Samanta’s unyielding dedication, compassion, and commitment to social upliftment.
His Excellency expressed profound gratitude for the accolade, aligning himself with the legacy of esteemed laureates like His Holiness the Dalai Lama. “This award is a testament to our collective endeavour towards societal betterment,” he remarked, acknowledging the honour bestowed upon him.
Further, His Excellency Dr. Kourouma paid homage to Dr. Samanta, perceiving him as a paternal figure epitomizing hope and devotion to truth and faith. He emphasized the transformative power of education, advocating its role as a pivotal instrument in global change, anchored in conviction and faith.
Dr. Samanta, addressing the gathering, reflected on KISS’s ethos of humanism, which fosters care and compassion among its students, resonating with the institution’s foundational values.

The ceremony was graced by dignitaries like Dr. Aminata Thuam, Chargee d’affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Guinea; Fofana Moussa, Chief of Staff of the Guinean Parliament; Michael Pal, Director of the Cultural Forum of the Embassy of Austria; and Sanjeev Juneja, Founder of Divisa Herbal Care. Additionally, Buddhist monks from Thailand and academic luminaries such as Prof. (Dr.) Amareswar Galla, Pro-Chancellor of KISS DU; Prof. Saranjit Singh, VC of KIIT DU; and Prof. Deepak Kumar Behera, VC of KISS DU, were present.

This event not only celebrated His Excellency Dr. Kourouma’s humanitarian achievements but also underscored the enduring legacy and global impact of the KISS Humanitarian Award, furthering its mission of recognizing and honouring transformative contributions to humanity.

Prof. Muhammad Yunus, founder of the Grameen Bank, Bangladesh was conferred with the 11th KISS Humanitarian Award on 11 May 2018.

The KISS Humanitarian Award was instituted in 2008 by the founder of KIIT and KISS Dr Achyuta Samanta to honour and recognise individuals with an exceptionally high contribution to the society in various fields related to social issues.

Prof. Muhammad Yunus in his acceptance speech said: ” This experience at KIIT and KISS took me to Disneyland, things that happen in fairy tales, the kind of discipline I see here is not easy, something happens when you come here.”

Appreciating the efforts of Dr Samanta, he said

” KIIT and KISS started with 10-12 students, not too far in history and now it’s a 75,000 membered strong family. He has a hand of a magician. Only a visitor can see the amazing quality of this land, the one who is here, will not realize it’s quality as much. It distances you from the reality and translating the dream into reality is the future. “

With utmost humility, he said, “Going through this experience, I feel awkward. The most deserving person to get the award is Dr Samanta. I offer the award to him.

He advised, “Imagine the wildest imagination. Imagination is power. It will make things happen. Imagination should be a priority. KISS, KIIT, Grameen Bank are the manifestation of wild imagination. The scientific discoveries of today were inspired by science fiction years back. The everyday experience of today is the wild imagination of past. Unless we imagine, it will not happen. We should be writing social fiction. That imagination will bring life in a different setup.”

Many other events are slated for the day. Prof. Yunus will launch his book ” A world of three Zeroes“. KISS will also sign MoU with Yunus Centre for Social Business.

The other prominent individuals who have received the prestigious award are – Edna Bomo Molewa, (2008), Dr Kee Sun Ham, President & Founder of Hanseo University, South Korea (2009), Sir Anerood Jugnauth, His Excellency the President of Mauritius (2010), Rt. Hon Lord Nicholas Addison Phillips, President (Chief Justice) of the Supreme Court of U.K (2011), Lyonchhen Jigmi Y. Thinley, Hon’ble Prime Minister, The Royal Government of Bhutan (2012), Madam Albina Du Boisrouvray, Founder, Association François-Xavier Bagnoud (FXB International), Switzerland (2013), Anne Stenhammer, Former Regional Programme Director, UN Women, South Asia Regional Office (2014), Albina Du Boisrouvray, Founder, Association François-Xavier Bagnoud (FXB International), Switzerland (2015) and Hollywood actor and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Global Goodwill Ambassador Ashley Judd (2016).

Tibetan spiritual leader and Nobel Laureate His Holiness The 14^th Dalai Lama has been honored with 10^th ‘KISS Humanitarian Award’ at a special function held at the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS),Bhubaneswar  on November 21, 2017. Smt. Saswati Bal, President, KIIT & KISS and Prof. Achyuta Samanta, Founder presented the award before an audience of 27,000 indigenous students of the institute and a host of dignitaries.

‘Let the 21^st century be the century of compassion and peace’–The Dalai Lama 

The award citation recognized his “concern for the oppressed human beings from all over the world in need of compassion”. He is a beacon of hope, aspiration and inspiration for the millions of people across the world, it mentioned, while noting his struggles and sacrifices for the people and universal compassion.