The Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) Deemed to be University (KISS-DU) and United Indian Anthropology Forum (UIAF) will jointly organize the upcoming World Anthropology Congress 2026 (WAC – 2026) from 18th to 22nd November 2026 on the theme “Human Journey: Across Space and Time”. In this context, a Curtain Raiser of WAC – 2026 was organized. On the occasion, the official website of WAC -2026 and a teaser video of the event was unveiled on 18th November 2026 by Hon’ble Founder KISS and KIIT, Professor Achyuta Samanta.
While addressing the gathering, Dr. Samanta appreciated the theme of the upcoming Congress and said that KISS, KIIT and KIMS will extend all the necessary support in making the event a grand success. The Congress should continue year after year, Dr. Samanta added. Speaking earlier, Professor S. Gregory, Member Secretary, UIAF in his Welcome Address briefed about the theme and the sub theme of the Congress. Further, he said that currently UIAF has 800+ members and threw light on how the Forum came into existence 5 years ago. He reflected on the key highlights of the World Anthropology Congress 2023 and thanked Dr. Samanta for setting up the UIAF National Office at KISS-DU.
In his Introductory Speech, Professor Deepak Kumar Behera, Advisor, KISS-DU and the President of UIAF talked about the sub themes of the WAC 2026 and said that KISS offers ample scope for carrying out action-based research in the field of Anthropology. Professor Saranjit Singh, Vice Chancellor (In-Charge), KISS-DU in his address, said that the theme of WAC 2026 is in sync with the vision and mission of the university, as it focusses on the livelihood of the students of KISS-DU. We should look at the future of Anthropology, Professor Singh added. Professor P.K Misra, one of the Patrons of UIAF also spoke on the occasion. Among others, the occasion was also graced by Professor Raju K.D. Pro Vice Chancellor, KIIT-DU and Professor Jnyana Ranjan Mohanty, Registrar, KIIT-DU.
Dr. Prashanta Kumar Routray, Registrar, KISS-DU while proposing the Vote of Thanks said that the theme of the WAC – 2026 is very innovative and heart touching as it depicts the journey of Dr. Samanta. Pertinent areas like Health, Education, Language and Livelihood have been incorporated in the theme and he concluded by saying that the same areas remain core to the foundation of KISS. He also proposed formal Vote of Thanks to all the dignitaries, attendees and organizing committee.
