Art of Giving: A Movement for Global Kindness and Compassion

Art of Giving: A Global Initiative for Peace and Happiness

Art of Giving (AOG) represents a life philosophy that inspires individuals worldwide to embrace kindness, compassion, and community engagement. Originally conceptualized and led by educationist and social reformer Prof. Achyuta Samanta, this initiative has transformed into a significant civic movement focused on nurturing peace and happiness through the power of selfless giving.

The roots of AOG can be traced back to Prof. Samanta's childhood, during which he experienced extreme poverty and adversity. Beginning at the tender age of five, he practiced giving even when he had very little to spare. This lifelong commitment fueled his transformation into a crusader for social welfare. On May 17, 2013, he formally launched the Art of Giving as a worldwide movement, a date that is now commemorated annually as the International Day of Art of Giving.

Each year, AOG centers around a unique theme that aligns with pressing social issues and emotional needs of the global populace. For example, the themes have ranged from Society, Spirituality, and Humanity in 2014 to 'My Mother My Hero' in 2021. Particularly notable was the 2020 initiative titled 'AOG Fights Corona,' aimed at supporting frontline workers during the pandemic. In 2024, the theme shifted to 'Let's AOG,' emphasizing universal participation in acts of kindness.

For 2025, the 12th edition of AOG culminates in a theme that resonates with the fundamental value of community: 'Neighbour Good – Bringing Good to the Neighbourhood.' From May 2 to 16, people across the globe are encouraged to engage in simple yet meaningful acts of kindness within their neighborhoods—sharing food, visiting the elderly, or actively participating in local gatherings.

What makes the Art of Giving extraordinary is its exponential growth over the past decade. Today, the AOG family boasts over 2.5 million active members, with representation through more than 220 national federations of the FIVB (Fédération Internationale de Volleyball). This broad representation extends the movement's values into global sports and youth activities, fostering a spirit of generosity among young people.

The ethos of AOG captures the essence of giving that has always been an integral aspect of Indian culture, encapsulating the principles of charity as highlighted in various religions. For instance, concepts of 'daan' in Hinduism, 'zakat' in Islam, 'tzedakah' in Judaism, and similar ideals across Buddhism have always upheld the act of giving as sacred. Prof. Samanta’s initiative seeks to modernize these age-old practices, stripping them of religious and geographic confines to forge a global, inclusive, and joyful movement rooted in humanity.

In a world often driven by material pursuits, Art of Giving serves as a reminder that true happiness lies in sharing and connecting with others. The dedication shown in fostering compassion, generosity, and community spirit serves as a beacon of hope, urging people everywhere to reconnect with their innate desire to give. As AOG continues to inspire and lead, it embodies the transformative power of service and philanthropy, touching lives across various communities and cultures.

As the world celebrates this year’s theme, communities are encouraged to engage in acts of kindness that encourage friendships and support among neighbors, reminding us of the fundamental human need for connection. Join the movement and become part of a legacy that champions kindness and nurtures the human spirit—because at the heart of Art of Giving lies a simple truth: we are all interconnected, and it is in giving that we receive the greatest joy.