Bhubaneswar: A global movement called Art of Giving (AOG) is inspiring millions to spread kindness, compassion, and joy through simple acts of generosity. The idea was born from the life experiences of Prof. Achyuta Samanta, an educator and social reformer from Odisha, India. He turned his personal philosophy into a worldwide initiative dedicated to bringing people together through selfless giving.
Though the movement officially began on May 17, 2013, its roots go much deeper. Prof. Samanta, who grew up in extreme poverty, started giving at the age of five—despite having very little himself. Over the years, his simple acts of kindness evolved into a powerful mission.
Every year on May 17, the world celebrates the International Day of Art of Giving. Each celebration comes with a new theme that reflects current social needs and emotional connections.
In 2014, the focus was on Society, Spirituality, and Humanity. The following year, Kompassion: The Garment Bank encouraged people to donate clothes to the underprivileged. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, the theme shifted to supporting frontline workers and affected families under “AOG Fights Corona.”
In 2021, the campaign “My Mother My Hero” urged people to express gratitude to their mothers through heartfelt letters. By 2024, the theme “Let’s AOG” invited universal participation, emphasizing that anyone, anywhere, can give.
Now, in its 12th year, the 2025 theme is “Neighbour Good – Bringing Good to the Neighbourhood.” This year, the focus is on strengthening local communities through small, thoughtful actions. Between May 2 and 16, people across the globe are celebrating the Fortnight of Happiness—a time to share food, visit elderly neighbors, organize community gatherings, or simply lend a helping hand.
The movement has seen tremendous growth. Today, over 2.5 million people are part of the AOG community. Its influence even extends into the world of sports, with 220 national volleyball federations under the FIVB embracing AOG’s values and spreading them through youth initiatives.
A major highlight this year is the release of a book titled “Art of Giving”, written by Prof. Samanta and published by Rupa Publications. Available on Amazon, the book shares the philosophy’s journey, its core values, and inspiring real-life stories from people touched by the movement.
Though AOG was formally launched in 2013, the values it represents—generosity, empathy, and collective well-being—are deeply rooted in ancient traditions. In India, the concept of “daan” (charity) is a sacred practice. Every major religion, including Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Jainism, Judaism, and Zoroastrianism, encourages giving as a moral duty.
What makes AOG unique is its universal appeal. Prof. Samanta has taken this timeless wisdom, removed religious boundaries, and built a movement that anyone can join—no matter where they live or what they believe.
As the founder of both KIIT and KISS, Prof. Samanta has already empowered over two million people through education. But it is through AOG that he shares the most personal part of his mission—that giving isn’t about wealth; it’s about heart.
His journey began with nothing but the desire to help. Today, he motivates millions to give not what they don’t need, but what they can offer with love.
