“The secret of life is to fall seven times and to get up eight times.” — Paulo Coelho
In 2020, the email arrived – I hadn’t made the cut for Kalaari Capital’s fellowship program.
Four years and countless experiences later, I’m writing this as part of Kalaari’s 2024 fellowship batch. That initial rejection didn’t mark the end of my path – it was merely a redirect. The “no” in 2020 pushed me to gain critical hands-on experience, refine my thinking, and develop a deeper understanding of the startup ecosystem.
When the opportunity came around again in 2024, I wasn’t the same applicant. I returned with tested perspectives, practical knowledge, and the resilience that only comes from perseverance.
My professional journey before Kalaari was marked by two rewarding years at Social Alpha, a multi-stage innovation curation and venture development platform for early-stage startups building across developmental sectors like Agriculture, Climate and Healthcare. As part of the AgriTech investment team at Social Alpha, I immersed myself in building problem statement driven investment thesis for themes such as Farm Mechanization and Water Management. The experience gave me first-hand exposure to the early-stage startup ecosystem in India and the potential startups hold in disrupting sectors and creating lasting impact through pathbreaking innovations.
A Warm Welcome, the Kalaari Way
In January 2024, I began my journey at Kalaari with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Instead of the usual first day at a desk, we were greeted with a Sankranti lunch at Vani Kola’s home—a cherished tradition that set the tone for a warm and inclusive start. The induction week that followed was a masterclass in team bonding and learning. From speed-dating with team members to mock investment committees, every moment was meticulously planned to integrate us into the #KalaariWay. The cherry on top? A fun color-themed dress code for each day, underscoring Kalaari’s vibrant culture.
A Year of Growth and Impact
Over the past year, I’ve worn multiple hats—crafting investment theses, supporting portfolio companies, working on strategic organizational initiatives, organizing events, and contributing to sector reports. Each project has been a stepping stone, pushing me to explore, grow, and excel. What truly sets Kalaari apart is its culture of trust and support. Whether it’s brainstorming sessions, founder interactions, or celebrations, the camaraderie is unparalleled.
“We work hard, but we celebrate harder” isn’t just a saying here—it’s a way of life. From office festivities to marking milestones, every occasion is cherished.
Looking Ahead
Sometimes the most pivotal moments in our careers aren’t the achievements but the redirections – the closed doors that force us to find new pathways forward. My story isn’t about overnight success – it’s about the transformative power of persistence. As I step into the second year of this fellowship, my ambition and passion have only grown stronger.
Kalaari has exceeded every expectation, providing a platform for both professional growth and personal fulfillment. If you’re curious about #LifeAtKalaari, I’d be happy to share my experiences. Reach out to me at piyush@kalaari.com—I’d love to connect!
Piyush R Golecha, Kalaari VC Fellow
