Mumbai/Bhubaneswar: Eminent educationist and social entrepreneur Prof. (Dr.) Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT and KISS, attended the Ganesh Puja celebration hosted by the Ambani family at their iconic residence, Antilia in Mumbai.
The celebration brought together prominent personalities from diverse fields, including business, public life, entertainment and other spheres of national importance. Prof. Samanta’s presence at the gathering was particularly significant for Odisha, reflecting the wider recognition of his contributions to education, social transformation and inclusive development.
From Odisha to a National Platform
Prof. Samanta has built an extensive institutional legacy through Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) and Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS). His work, particularly in expanding educational opportunities for students from indigenous and underserved communities, has brought him recognition in India and internationally.
His participation in such a prominent gathering also reflects how Odisha’s leaders and institutions are increasingly becoming part of conversations and networks extending far beyond the state.
A Convergence of Leadership and Influence
The Ambani family’s Ganesh celebrations at Antilia have traditionally attracted leading personalities from India’s corporate, cultural, sporting and public spheres. This year’s gathering similarly witnessed a distinguished guest presence.
Against this backdrop, Prof. Samanta’s participation represents more than a ceremonial appearance. It brings together two different models of institution-building—India’s corporate leadership on one side and Odisha’s education and social-development ecosystem on the other.
The occasion also underlines the increasing visibility of individuals from Odisha who have created institutions and initiatives with national and international reach.
Taking Odisha’s Story Beyond Its Borders
From establishing globally recognised educational institutions to creating opportunities for thousands of students, Prof. Samanta’s journey has remained closely associated with Odisha.
His presence at Antilia therefore carries a symbolic message: Odisha’s stories of education, entrepreneurship and social transformation are increasingly finding space on prominent national platforms.
As Odisha continues to strengthen its profile across business, investment, education and innovation, such interactions help showcase the state’s leadership and institution-building capabilities to a wider audience.