I’ve been part of Kalaari for a year now, and among the many things I treasure—beyond the wealth of VC insights—is the unique culture that binds us together like a family. In true Kalaari spirit, we celebrate festivals from all corners of India. From Sankranti and Holi to Onam, Diwali, and finally our New Year event, every occasion brings us closer as a close-knit team, reinforcing the diversity of our shared experiences.
A Grand Finale to the Year
New Year Celebrations at Kalaari is more than just another date on the calendar; it’s a time to reflect on the past year’s achievements and toast the exciting possibilities ahead. This year, we took our annual celebration to the next level with the Kalaari Gala and Awards Night—a Bollywood-themed spectacle that felt like stepping right onto the set of a blockbuster.
From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was electric. Everyone channeled their favorite characters—from Rani and GanguBai to Dabangg, Raj, and Barfi—adding a colorful dose of filmy charm to the evening. We started with a warm welcome and a thrilling 360-degree camera photoshoot, capturing our playful poses and big smiles.
Thoughtful Surprises: The Secret Santa Exchange
Soon, it was time for the Secret Santa gift exchange, a tradition that perfectly reflects Kalaari’s spirit of thoughtfulness. Each Santa went the extra mile to pick out something meaningful or fun for their recipient—whether it was a quirky gag gift or a useful item for everyday life. Watching everyone unwrap their presents was an instant mood-lifter, reminding us just how well we know and care for each other.
Dance, Music, and Pure Filmi Night
As the evening progressed, the Bollywood factor amped up several notches. Team members put on high-energy dance performances, grooving to tunes ranging from nostalgic classics like “Koi Mil Gaya” and “Me Nikla Gaddi Leke” to modern hits like “Why This Kolaveri.” It was a joy to see the team members leave their work personas behind for a few hours and unleash their inner dancers, singers, and actors. The energy was contagious, and each performance celebrated the diverse talents we bring to Kalaari.
Celebrating Our Stars: The Kalaari Awards
After the dance floor cooled down, we moved on to the Kalaari Awards, hosted by Priyanka Gill. Each award category was a playful nod to iconic Bollywood roles—from the “Bajrangi Bhaijaan” who’s always ready to help, to the “Gabbar Singh” who keeps us on our toes. The acceptance speeches had us laughing, cheering, and feeling grateful for the blend of personalities that make up our team. It was a beautiful reminder that at Kalaari, everyone’s unique contribution is both noticed and celebrated.
Sharing More Than a Meal: The Long Table Dinner
As the festivities wound down, we gathered around a beautifully arranged long table for a curated dinner. Between bites of delicious food and clinking glasses, we took time to reflect on the achievements of the past year, sharing stories and gratitude. It was a moment of unity, the perfect way to round off a night filled with laughter, celebration, and a genuine sense of togetherness.
Embracing a Culture of Collaboration and Growth
Life at Kalaari goes beyond the traditional scope of a VC firm—there’s an inherent sense of ownership and pride in planning internal events, fostering a culture of community and inclusivity. Working with Priyanka Gill, our CXXO head Vatsala, and the Kalaari marketing team was a masterclass in paying attention to detail. Whether it’s orchestrating an evening of Bollywood glitz or navigating complex deals, Kalaari emphasizes the significance of every nuance.
This experience has reaffirmed my belief that Kalaari invests not just in businesses, but also in people, relationships, and a culture of continuous growth. I feel fortunate to be part of this vibrant ecosystem where each new challenge is an opportunity to learn, and each celebration is a testament to the bonds we share.
I’m excited for the year ahead and can’t wait to see what new experiences and festivities await us. At Kalaari, every day is a chance to innovate, collaborate, and celebrate—together.