VIEWPOINT | In a divided world, the simple power of giving endures
Guest column by Dinesh Kumar Tudu, Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology
The Art of Giving initiative, a global movement founded by Professor Achyuta Samanta — founder of Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) and Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) — marked its thirteenth anniversary this month.
Launched in 2013, the initiative encourages individuals and communities to practice everyday acts of giving as a means of promoting peace, happiness and social connection. Over the years, it has grown from a local effort into a widely observed global movement, engaging participants across countries and communities.
This year, the theme is “Share to Shine,“ emphasizing the idea that sharing, whether through food, time, knowledge, care or effort, creates a positive impact for both the giver and the receiver. It reflects a simple principle: that even small acts of generosity can contribute to a more connected and compassionate society.
Dr. Samanta said when announcing this year’s theme that the movement has completed 13 years of inspiring people to embrace values of harmony, friendship and mutual support. He noted that unveiling the theme ahead of the annual observance allowed participants worldwide to prepare and engage meaningfully.
A growing global movement
Art of Giving is observed each year on May 17 and has expanded significantly in scale and reach. In 2025, the initiative was marked in around 120 countries and across thousands of locations in India, including cities, towns and rural communities.
Activities ranged from community gatherings and public outreach programs to simple individual actions such as sharing meals, supporting neighbors and engaging in volunteer efforts. The 2025 theme, “NeighborGood,“ focused on building stronger local relationships and fostering a sense of belonging.
The movement’s continued growth reflects its decentralized nature, allowing individuals and organizations to participate in ways that are relevant to their own communities. This flexibility has contributed to its adoption across diverse cultural and social contexts.
A key institutional anchor of the initiative is the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), the world’s largest Indigenous school-cum-university, where the philosophy of giving is integrated into everyday life. The institution supports tens of thousands of students from marginalized Indigenous communities and promotes values of empathy, cooperation and service.
Sharing as a way of life
This edition of the Art of Giving builds on the theme “Share to Shine“ with the idea that giving is not limited to material resources. It includes sharing time, knowledge, care and effort – acts that are accessible to individuals regardless of economic means.
The concept also challenges common assumptions about giving, such as the belief that it requires wealth or leads to personal loss. Instead, it highlights the role of intention and participation, suggesting that meaningful change can begin with small, consistent actions.
Drawing from his own life experiences, Dr Samanta has often emphasized that the practice of sharing can begin even in conditions of scarcity. The initiative reflects this belief, positioning giving not as an occasional act but as a way of life.
As the initiative enters its 13th year, it continues to promote a simple message: that acts of giving, however small, can create lasting impact and contribute to a more humane and connected world.
Dinesh Kumar Tudu is assistant director of the international relations office at the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology in Bhubaneswar India.
This content is in partnership between The Dakota Scout and the Consulate General of India in Seattle intended to explore ideas, traditions and policy ties shaping the relationship between India, South Dakota and the United States.
