Art of Giving
Why This Matters
The Art of Giving (AOG) is an initiative of Dr. Achyuta Samanta through KIIT & KISS, aimed at creating an unconditional and sustainable abundance of love, peace, happiness, and contentment through acts of kindness and generosity. Founded on 17 May 2013, AOG believes that the key to happiness lies in unlocking the spirit of giving within each individual.
The initiative is not just a philosophy—it is a global civic engagement movement that inspires individuals and communities to contribute selflessly toward building a better world. It nurtures a sense of responsibility among students towards their communities, empowering them to become leaders and changemakers.
In recognition of its exceptional community impact, Art of Giving won second place in the 2021 MacJannet Prize for Global Citizenship, awarded by the Talloires Network and MacJannet Foundation, USA. Out of nominations from 15 countries, it was ranked second globally among 10 finalists from 8 countries. This prestigious award included $5,000 USD to further strengthen program activities.
Over 20 million followers | 10+ million members | Celebrated in more than 25,000 locations across 200 countries
What We Do
Promote a Culture of Kindness
Encouraging individuals to practice generosity and compassion in their daily lives.
Community Engagement
Serving as a bridge between KIIT-KISS students and communities, fostering civic responsibility.
Global Movement
Celebrated annually on 17 May as the International Day of Art of Giving, uniting millions worldwide under various themes promoting peace, spirituality, and humanity.
Volunteerism and Leadership
Students lead community engagement initiatives, learning to address societal issues through active participation.
Themes and Key Campaigns over the Years
Each year, Art of Giving is celebrated globally on May 17 with a unique theme that reflects contemporary social needs and inspires millions to practice compassion, kindness, and community service:
Neighbour Good
Focused on building stronger, kinder, and more connected neighborhoods through everyday acts of goodness and inclusivity
Let’s AOG
A call for universal participation, urging everyone to give—whether through material support, kind words, or compassionate action
Helping the Help
Acknowledged domestic workers as “unsung heroes,” encouraging people to show gratitude to househelp and service workers.
Hope, Happiness and Harmony
Emphasized emotional healing and community unity in the aftermath of the global pandemic.
My Mother My Hero
A heartfelt tribute to mothers as the original givers, through letters of gratitude.
AOG Fights Corona
A pandemic-responsive initiative that supported frontline warriors and vulnerable communities.
Bag of Happiness
A campaign that spread joy by gifting happiness kits to underprivileged students.
Pyaar Bhara Pack
Distributed over 20 million meals, embodying the spirit of sharing food and love.
Community Contribution to Community Building
Marked the expansion of AOG into a mass movement, driven by public participation.
Cyclothon
Advocated for a healthier, greener planet through cycling.
Connecting with the World and Self
Encouraged introspection and gratitude as acts of giving.
Society, Spirituality, Humanity
The inaugural theme aimed at uniting these three pillars through the practice of giving.
Impact Metrics
Millions of meals and essential items distributed through campaigns.
Thousands of student volunteers engaged in leadership and community service.
Global recognition with participation in 100+ countries on International Day of Art of Giving.
Enhanced civic responsibility and compassion among youth, turning them into catalysts for social change.
Awards & Recognitions
MacJannet Prize for Global Citizenship (2021) – Second Place Worldwide
Recognized as an exceptional civic engagement initiative.
Ranked second globally among entries from 15 countries, after Rhodes University (South Africa) and before University of Manchester (UK).
Awarded $5,000 USD to strengthen program activities.
Partners
KIIT & KISS – Core implementing institutions
Supported by an extensive network of volunteers, community groups, and global supporters.
I realized that everything I practiced and achieved in my life revolved around the Art of Giving. My life can be summarized in three words: Art of Giving”
– Prof. (Dr.) Achyuta Samanta, Founder – KIIT, KISS & KIMS
