Tucked away in Sector 4, Kharghar, Kallol Cafe opened its doors on January 23, 2025, with a mission that goes beyond food and beverages. The cafe’s name ‘Kallo’, derived from Marathi, meaning ‘Chit-Chat’ captures the essence of what the space aims to offer: real conversations, genuine connections, and a break from the digital noise.

Founded by cousins Soham Chandak and Vinay Chandak, Kallol Cafe is the product of shared values and a clear vision. “We wanted to create a place where people spend more time with their friends and family, and less with their phones and gadgets,” he adds. That vision is at the core of the cafe’s layout, offerings, and atmosphere.

The inspiration came from a visit to a cafe in Switzerland that left a lasting impression on Soham. “They had a reading corner where customers would read books and leave notes inside for the next reader,” he explains. That served as inspiration for Kallol Cafe’s own reading space.

At Kallol, the reading corner isn't just about books; it's a quiet, cozy zone where ideas are shared, and moments are preserved through handwritten notes and annotations. “The space invites visitors to slow down, engage, and reflect”, explains Soham.

But the cafe doesn’t stop at books. For those who prefer more active interaction, it offers a range of indoor games, including UNO cards, Scrabble, and Join the Dots puzzles. The games are placed within easy reach, subtly nudging visitors toward shared experiences and away from isolated screen time.

The cafe hosts a weekend art workshop, where participants can engage in painting exercises for a nominal fee. The workshops attract individuals across age groups. The cafe is also pet-friendly, allowing patrons to bring their furry companions along.

Looking ahead, the founders are working on new ways to reinforce their philosophy. One upcoming initiative includes an attractive discount for customers who choose not to use their mobile phones during their visit. The idea is to reward those who are present in the moment, engaging with their surroundings and companions.

In addition, the duo plan to develop a loyalty card, aimed at building a regular community of patrons who align with Kallol’s values of connection, creativity, and conscious socializing.