Susanta Bahinipati from KIIT Shines in Esri India Story Map Challenge 2025

Bhubaneswar : Susanta Bahinipati, Assistant Professor at the KIIT School of Film and Media Sciences, has secured the fourth position at the Esri India Story Map Challenge 2025, a prestigious national competition that witnessed participation from more than 700 innovators and researchers from across the country.

Bahinipati’s winning StoryMap, titled “Revealing the Ancient Engineering Marvel: Waterways Behind Konark Construction”, explores the advanced water-based engineering and logistical strategies that enabled the construction of the world-famous Sun Temple at Konark. Blending extensive historical research with contemporary geospatial technology, the project provides fresh insights into Odisha’s architectural genius and cultural history.

Expressing gratitude after the achievement, Bahinipati said, “I am glad to receive such a prestigious award from Esri India. This recognition inspires me to continue exploring how geospatial storytelling can illuminate India’s rich historical legacy.”

He also thanked Prof. (Dr.) Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT & KISS, and the KIIT administration for their support and encouragement throughout his journey.

The Esri Story Map Challenge aims to promote creative and impactful GIS-based storytelling, enabling participants to develop interactive narratives on themes such as culture, heritage, environment, and community development.

With over two decades of experience in the film industry, Mr. Bahinipati is currently a full-time academician at the KIIT School of Film and Media Sciences, contributing significantly to research and digital storytelling education.