Kalinga Global Photography Festival 2026  Inaugurated at KIIT

The Kalinga Global Photography Festival 2026 was inaugurated at KIIT on the occasion of World Photography Day. Organized by the KIIT School of Film and Media Sciences, the festival brought together students, young photographers, filmmakers, faculty members and photography enthusiasts.

Gokulananda Mallik, Minister for Fisheries and Animal Resources Development, attended the inaugural ceremony as the Chief Guest and delivered an inspiring message to students and young photographers. He said photography is not merely an art form but also a powerful medium to preserve time and memories. “No one can hold time, but photographers can capture moments through their cameras and preserve them as memories,” he said.

Praising the contribution of Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder, KIIT & KISS, Mr. Mallik said KIIT has established a distinct identity at both the national and international levels due to Dr. Samanta’s sustained efforts and dedication.

Addressing the younger generation, he said the present era is driven by technology and artificial intelligence. He urged young people to make effective use of science and technology to develop the state and the country. He expressed hope that students would play a significant role in realising the vision of Developed Odisha 2036 and Viksit Bharat 2047.

Renowned Odia film actress Barsha Priyadarshini, who attended the event as the Guest of Honour, said, “A photograph taken today becomes history tomorrow.” She observed that true photography is about capturing an image that conveys more than words can express. She also praised Dr. Achyuta Samanta’s efforts to shape students’ futures and help them grow into responsible, good human beings.

Among those present at the inaugural ceremony were Prof. Jnyana Ranjan Mohanty, Registrar, KIIT DU; Prof. Debashish Bandopadhyay, Director General; Dr. Rajiv Kumar Panda, Dean, KIIT School of Media, Fashion Technology and Film; and festival Convenor Prof. Sushant Bahinipati. Several eminent photographers, filmmakers, faculty members and students also attended the event.