Nita M. Ambani, the Founder and Chairperson of the Reliance Foundation, was honored with the prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2025 during a ceremony at the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) campus on Monday.
The award was presented by Nobel Laureate Prof. Mohan Munasinghe from Sri Lanka, alongside Dr. Achyuta Samanta, the Founder of KIIT, KISS, and KIMS. The event gathered senior officials from these institutions, as well as a substantial number of students and dignitaries.
This award acknowledges Smt. Ambani’s exceptional humanitarian efforts and her remarkable contributions to social development in areas such as education, healthcare, rural transformation, women empowerment, and sports promotion through the Reliance Foundation.
In her acceptance speech, Smt. Ambani emphasized Dr. Samanta’s remarkable efforts in creating two modern educational institutions—KIIT and KISS—which she believes are a source of national pride. She expressed her gratitude for receiving the KISS Humanitarian Award, stating that the honor belongs not just to her, but to the entire Reliance Foundation team.
Addressing the 40,000 students present, she expressed her heartfelt sentiments: “I will never forget the love and affection you have given me here.” She described her visit to the two prestigious institutions as a true privilege.
Smt. Ambani expressed her emotional connection to the land of Lord Jagannath, commending Odisha’s rich culture, traditions, and deep connection to nature. She emphasized gender equality, stating that boys and girls are equal in their capabilities. She encouraged students to dream big and work diligently towards those dreams, saying, “This is just the beginning, not your final goal.”
She also stressed the importance of maintaining a righteous path, adding, “I see the future of India here in KISS. After seeing the children here, I am confident that the future of India is bright.”
The KISS Humanitarian Award, established in 2008 by Dr. Samanta, represents the highest honor of KISS, aimed at recognizing individuals and organizations that exemplify the spirit of humanitarianism globally. The award includes a citation scroll and a gold-plated trophy, symbolizing the golden heart of a humanitarian, encompassing the virtues of purity, kindness, prosperity, and hope. The trophy features a pair of hands uplifting a textured heart, representing how dedicated efforts can alter the lives of the less fortunate and contribute to a better world.
In his welcoming remarks, Dr. Samanta stated, “Success doesn’t mean achieving things only for yourself; true success is bringing light into the lives of others.” He cited Nita Ambani as an example, remarking that great initiatives never go unrecognized when pursued with commitment. Dr. Samanta praised her multi-faceted social work, highlighting that her noble efforts have earned her widespread admiration and respect. He thanked Mrs. Ambani for graciously accepting the KISS Humanitarian Award.
