The Kallialay Crew
From head coach Samai to instructors and management, meet the team shaping your surf journey.
Since 2009
The People Behind the Waves
With Heart, Skill & Community Spirit
Kallialay Surf School began in 2009 as one of the first surf schools on India’s southeast coast. Founded by two brothers from Auroville who grew up surfing the waves of the Bay of Bengal, the school has become a local landmark at Serenity Beach. Today, under the guidance of Samai Reboul, Kallialay continues to blend high-quality instruction with a deep respect for the ocean—and a friendly, family-like atmosphere.
Since 2009
Kallialay’s instructors emphasise respect for the sea and teach fundamentals such as wave reading, paddling and surf etiquette. Classes are structured around tides and sea conditions, with sessions scheduled at four time slots each day to ensure the best learning environment. Safety remains a priority—lessons start with ocean awareness and board handling, and foam boards with rubber fins are provided. Beyond surfing, the team strives to build awareness of coastal ecosystems and foster an inclusive spirit in the water.
Years of surf instruction
Students taught
Days/Year surf classes offered
Meet Our Team
Founder & Head Coach
Samai
Raised in Auroville and surfing since the ’90s, Samai is the driving force behind Kallialay. He brings decades of experience, deep local knowledge, and international standards to the school. As the head coach of India’s national surf team, Samai’s time on the global stage feeds directly back into how he trains students of all levels—ensuring each lesson is both grounded and world-class.
ISA-Certified Surf Instructor
Mimi
Mimi brings energy and enthusiasm to every session. Her kindness, encouragement, and sharp eye for technique make her a favorite among returning students. Whether you’re catching your first wave or working on new skills at the intermediate level, her passion for surfing shines through.
“I love being there for the whole journey—from those first wobbly pop-ups to the point where surfers are paddling out and learning new skills. That’s when surfing becomes even more exciting and fun. I remember that feeling when I was learning, and it’s so much fun to share that excitement with others as they break through to the next level. Watching that progress happen is my favorite part.”
ISA-Certified Surf Instructor
Rizzi
Rizzi has been riding waves since 2009 and brings unmatched energy to the school. He’s known not only for his deep knowledge and dedication but also for his humor, easygoing attitude, and friendly spirit. Students often say his relaxed vibe and light-hearted jokes make learning to surf fun and memorable.
“I caught my first waves back in 2009, and after a brief break, I fully committed to surfing in 2011. In 2014, I received my first custom board—an experience that transformed surfing from a hobby into a lifelong passion. Since then, I’ve been dedicated to the ocean, constantly learning, improving, and sharing that love for surfing with others. Today, I teach surfing to people of all levels, helping them not just ride waves but also discover the joy, confidence, and freedom that surfing brings.”
School Manager
Mukta
Mukta is the one who keeps everything flowing—from scheduling and communication to making sure each student gets the best possible experience. Friendly and organised, she’s your go-to person for all bookings and practical info.
“The ocean is my favourite place to be. Riding a wave is an incredible feeling, no matter what your level is. It’s a great feeling seeing clients happy and excited after every session.”
ISA-Certified Surf Instructor
Edgar
Eddy grew up alongside Samai, sharing the same waves and sense of adventure. With a background in both surfing and skateboarding, he co-founded a local skatepark that offers kids a space to learn balance, flow, and community. At Kallialay, Eddy brings this same spirit—mixing surf instruction with the playful creativity of board sports. Whether you’re carving a wave or cruising a ramp, Eddy’s got your back.
“What really attracts me about surf is the connection with nature’s force, the social interaction at the peak and and that it keeps you on point. What motivated me to learn was the fact that it looks surreal and that you can practice almost anywhere in the world, and all you need is a board and your skills.”
ISA-Certified Surf Instructor & Media COORDINATOR
Safia
A skilled surf instructor with a creative eye, Safia brings both movement and media to life at Kallialay. In the water, she’s patient, empowering, and especially tuned in to helping women and beginners build confidence. On land, she’s the force behind Kallialay’s Instagram and digital storytelling—capturing the essence of surf life, community spirit, and everything in between.
“Teaching surfing has been the most rewarding jobe I’ve ever done, being able to be part of people’s discovery of the sport is such a blessing. Spending the day in the water with people, having fun, how can it get any better.”
ISA-Certified Surf Instructor
Perceval
If it has a board, Perceval can ride it. From snowy peaks to tropical breaks, his love for movement across elements defines his approach to surf coaching. Perceval brings versatility, energy, and a sense of fun to each class—helping students find their rhythm, flow, and freedom on the water.
“Surfing is a portal into the flow state. The key is to have as much time riding waves. I teach how to have long sessions with high wave counts and low effort. The more time you spend riding the wave the more quickly you will progress. Teaching is the fastest way to learn oneself.”
SURF COACH-IN-TRAINING
Max
The youngest member of the crew, Max brings fresh energy and a willingness to learn. Eager and attentive, he’s currently training under the guidance of Kallialay’s seasoned instructors, assisting with beginner classes and beach safety. Whether he’s waxing boards or helping a first-timer catch their balance, Max is already making waves.
“I love surfing because carving turns on a wave while helping someone feel the joy of their very first wave is an unbeatable feeling.”
SURF COACH-IN-TRAINING
TJ
TJ is our newest instructor in training — calm, enthusiastic, and always in the water. Whether it’s sunrise or sunset, you’ll likely spot him surfing before or after lessons. His passion for the ocean is infectious, and his easygoing nature makes students feel instantly at ease. As he hones his teaching skills with guidance from the team, TJ brings fresh energy, curiosity, and a true love for the sport to every session.
Respect the Ocean, Protect the Coast
At Kallialay, safety always comes first. From your very first lesson, our instructors teach essential ocean awareness—reading waves, handling currents, and staying in control. But our commitment goes beyond surfing. We believe in nurturing a respectful relationship with the sea and coastline. Whether it’s keeping the beach clean, understanding tide cycles, or learning about local marine life, we aim to grow a community of surfers who care as much about the ocean as they do about riding its waves.