Nita M. Ambani Honored with KISS Humanitarian Award 2025

Nita M. Ambani, the Founder of the Reliance Foundation, was awarded the KISS Humanitarian Award 2025 for her remarkable contributions to social development. The award ceremony, held at the KISS campus, was graced by Nobel Laureate Prof. Mohan Munasinghe and Dr. Achyuta Samanta. In her speech, Ambani emphasized the importance of education and gender equality, encouraging students to dream big and work hard. The KISS Humanitarian Award recognizes individuals who embody humanitarian values, and Ambani's efforts in education, healthcare, and women's empowerment were highlighted. This prestigious accolade symbolizes the spirit of kindness and hope in humanitarian work.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 18, 2026, 14:32 IST

Nita M. Ambani Receives Prestigious Award

On Monday, Nita M. Ambani, the Founder and Chairperson of the Reliance Foundation, was awarded the esteemed KISS Humanitarian Award 2025 at the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) campus.

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 was attended by senior officials from the institutions, students, and various dignitaries.

This recognition highlights Smt. Ambani’s exceptional humanitarian efforts and her impactful contributions to social progress in areas such as education, healthcare, rural development, women's empowerment, and sports through the Reliance Foundation.

During her acceptance speech, Smt. Ambani praised Dr. Samanta for establishing two modern educational institutions—KIIT and KISS—which she described as sources of national pride. She expressed her gratitude for receiving the KISS Humanitarian Award, emphasizing that the honor belongs to her entire team at the Reliance Foundation.

Addressing the audience of 40,000 students at KISS, she remarked, “I will always cherish the love and warmth you have shown me here.” She expressed her privilege in visiting the remarkable institutions of KIIT and KISS.

Smt. Ambani shared her admiration for Odisha's rich culture and traditions, noting the strong bond its people have with nature.

She emphasized gender equality, stating that girls are equally capable as boys, and encouraged students to dream big and work diligently to achieve their aspirations. She advised them to remain committed to righteousness, expressing her belief in a bright future for India as seen in the students at KISS.

The KISS Humanitarian Award, established in 2008 by Dr. Samanta, is the highest accolade given by KISS, aimed at honoring individuals and organizations that exemplify humanitarian values globally. The award includes a citation scroll and a gold-plated trophy.

The trophy symbolizes the golden heart of a humanitarian, representing purity, kindness, prosperity, and hope. It features hands lifting a heart, textured with shapes resembling waving hands, illustrating how dedicated efforts can uplift the underprivileged and enhance the world.

In his welcoming remarks, Dr. Samanta stated, “Success is not just about personal achievements; it’s about illuminating the lives of others.” He cited Nita Ambani as an example, noting that significant initiatives yield lasting impact when pursued with dedication. He commended her for her extensive social work, which has earned her widespread love and respect.

Dr. Samanta expressed gratitude to Mrs. Ambani for graciously accepting the KISS Humanitarian Award.