Acts of giving, cyclothons and meetings marked the 4th anniversary celebrations of International ‘Art of Giving’ Day on May 17, 2017. ‘Art of Giving’ is the philosophy of life of noted educationist and social activist Prof. Achyuta Samanta. It stands on the simple premise – ‘Live to give and give to live’.

This year’s theme was ‘Environment protection and giving back to mother Earth’. People in 100 cities of India, including Bengaluru, Kolkata, Patna, Mumbai and New Delhi, and 100 cities abroad joined in the celebrating the day that promotes selfless giving. In Odisha, thousands of people enthusiastically participated in cyclothons held in 40 locations across the state, including all 30 district headquarters. More than 500 people took part in the cyclothon from Mayfair square to KIIT Stadium in Bhubaneswar.

Ollywood stars Sabyasachi Mishra, Pinky Priyadarshini, Hadu, International Footballer Shradhanjali Samantaray, Olympiad Anuradha Biswal, National Cyclist Amita Kumari, Dilip Hali, Prof. Achyuta Samanta and Prof. P. P. Mathur, VC, KIIT University joined the cyclothone to promote the Art of Giving. They also joined in a meeting held at KIIT Stadium where the guests highlighted the philosophy of Art of Giving and its importance in every one’s life.

“In the present times, when there is much stress and competition, the practice of giving brings peace and happiness. This practice is not confined to giving money and materials, a few words of motivation and appreciation or a patient hearing is also giving. It is always good to give back to the society”, said Prof. Samanta. He credited all his achievements to his philosophy of Art of Giving, which he has been following since his childhood.

Students of KIIT University played Nukad Natak on Art of Giving in different places of the city.