Image: The Hindu
Nita Ambani honored with the KISS Humanitarian Award 2025 for her extraordinary contributions to social development. Discover her inspiring acceptance speech.
GlipzoOn March 18, 2026, Smt. Nita M. Ambani, the esteemed Founder and Chairperson of the Reliance Foundation, received the highly regarded KISS Humanitarian Award 2025 at the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) campus in Bhubaneswar, India. This prestigious recognition was presented by Prof. Mohan Munasinghe, a Nobel Laureate from Sri Lanka, during an inspiring ceremony attended by numerous dignitaries, students, and faculty members.
The KISS Humanitarian Award is awarded to individuals who exemplify a profound commitment to humanitarian efforts and social development. Smt. Ambani's receipt of this award underscores her exceptional contributions in various sectors, including education, healthcare, rural transformation, women’s empowerment, and the promotion of sports through the Reliance Foundation.
In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Smt. Ambani acknowledged the pivotal role of Dr. Achyuta Samanta, the founder of KIIT, KISS, and KIMS, in establishing these educational beacons. She expressed her pride in receiving the award, stating that it represents not just her individual achievements but also the collective efforts of the Reliance Foundation team.
Addressing the enthusiastic audience of over 40,000 students at KISS, she expressed her gratitude, saying, “I will never forget the love and affection you have given me here.” Her words resonated, highlighting the close-knit bond between the institution and its students, as well as her deep appreciation for the Odisha region’s rich cultural heritage and values.
Smt. Ambani emphasized the importance of equality, asserting that there should be no distinction between boys and girls, stating, “Whatever boys can do, girls can do as well.” She encouraged students to dream big and reminded them that hard work and dedication are essential for achieving their aspirations. Furthermore, she imparted a powerful message about staying true to one's moral compass, advising, “Never leave the path of righteousness.” Her optimism about the future of India was palpable, as she declared, “I see the future of India here in KISS.”
The KISS Humanitarian Award, established in 2008 by Dr. Samanta, is the highest honor given by KISS, aimed at recognizing individuals and organizations that embody the spirit of humanitarian work on a global scale. Recipients of the award receive a citation scroll alongside a gold-plated trophy, symbolizing their significant contributions to society.
In his welcoming address, Dr. Samanta articulated a profound philosophy regarding success, stating, “Success doesn’t mean achieving things only for yourself; true success is bringing light into the lives of others.” He praised Smt. Ambani for her multifaceted social initiatives and acknowledged the deep respect and admiration she commands for her humanitarian work. Dr. Samanta expressed gratitude for her acceptance of the KISS Humanitarian Award and reiterated the importance of dedication in achieving meaningful change.
Smt. Ambani’s recognition adds to her illustrious legacy of philanthropy, emphasizing the role of corporate social responsibility in contemporary society. Her active involvement in various initiatives showcases how influential figures can significantly impact lives and communities through dedicated efforts.
The KISS Humanitarian Award serves as a reminder of the vital role that individuals and organizations play in addressing societal challenges. In a world often overshadowed by materialism, the acknowledgment of humanitarian efforts like those of Smt. Ambani inspires others to contribute positively to society. Her commitment to education, health, and empowerment exemplifies how philanthropy can create lasting change.
By celebrating such contributions, the KISS Institute not only honors those making a difference but also encourages a new generation of leaders to prioritize humanitarian values. Smt. Ambani’s achievements and her message to students reflect a broader call to action for young people to engage in social causes, fostering hope for a brighter future for India.
As India continues to evolve, the importance of humanitarian work cannot be overstated. The actions and commitment of individuals like Smt. Nita Ambani are crucial in shaping a more equitable society. The future will likely see a growing trend of corporate leaders embracing their social responsibilities, with an emphasis on sustainable initiatives that benefit underserved communities.
Going forward, it will be essential to monitor how the philanthropic landscape shifts and how initiatives inspired by leaders like Smt. Ambani influence future generations. The synergy between education, empowerment, and humanitarian efforts could lead to groundbreaking developments in various sectors, contributing to the overall progress of society. As we celebrate this momentous occasion, the world keenly watches how such recognition galvanizes further humanitarian endeavors across India and beyond.
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