Bhubaneswar, IndiaMay 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The 13th International Art of Giving Day, inspired by the vision of Dr. Achyuta Samanta, was celebrated this year in 190 countries across six continents. Additionally, followers and well-wishers of the “Art of Giving” movement participated in the event at 50,000 locations worldwide, including all 222 FIFA member nations, all 28 states and 8 union territories of India, every city and town across the country, and all district headquarters, blocks, and panchayats in Odisha.
13th International Art of Giving Day Celebrated in 190 Countries
In Odisha alone, the day was observed at 20,000 locations. On the occasion of the 13th International Art of Giving Day, the movement directly impacted nearly 250 million people, including followers and supporters.
Over the past week, the “Art of Giving” initiative was carried out worldwide and in various cities across India, witnessing participation from people from all walks of life. Each year, the International Art of Giving Day is celebrated with a unique theme.
This year’s theme is “Share to Shine,” which means sharing happiness with others also fosters one’s own growth and progress. As part of this year’s celebrations, volleyballs and nets were distributed at over 3,000 locations in Odisha. Inspired by Dr. Achyuta Samanta’s vision of developing sports and promoting harmonious friendship among young people, 9,100 volleyballs were distributed this year.
“I am what I am today because of the concept of the ‘Art of Giving.’ Thanks to this movement, I have received warmth, love, and affection from people,” said Dr. Samanta.
A major event commemorating the 13th “Art of Giving Day” was organized in Bhubaneswar, with participation from people across various sectors. On this occasion, the theme song for the “Art of Giving,” sung by renowned Hindi playback singer Shaan, was unveiled. Among those present at the event were Lok Sabha MP Rabindra Narayan Behera, Indian tennis legend and Padma Bhushan awardee Leander Paes, Tibetan Buddhist master and spiritual director of the Ripa International Center in Switzerland Getrul Jigme Rinpoche, Baba Ram Narayan Das, and Femina India Miss Nikita Porwal.
As in previous years, the prestigious AOG Hero Awards were presented to renowned medical expert Dr. Bidyut Das, Rotarian Ajay Agrawal, and KIIT Professor Kumar Debadatta, in recognition of their outstanding contributions to social service. Each awardee received a cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh.
Professor Saranjit Singh, Vice-Chancellor of KIIT and KISS, along with other senior officials, participated in the event.