The Date Reveal That Missed the Mark by One Day

The announcement of an event date is usually a moment of excitement, signaling months of careful planning and preparation. Unfortunately, for GDG Kolkata, their recent date reveal was anything but. It not only clashed with other significant community events but also raised serious questions about their intentions, preparation, and priorities.

A Comedy of Clashes

GDG Kolkata first announced their upcoming event date - December 22nd, disregarding that it directly clashed with Cloud@DevFest Kolkata, an event hosted by GDG Cloud Kolkata. This sparked immediate backlash. GDG Kolkata defended themselves, claiming the date had been “planned for months.” Yet, almost as quickly as it was announced, the date was retracted, citing a “logistical error.”

When they returned with a revised date—December 21st—it landed them in the middle of another controversy, this time clashing with AI Community Day hosted by ML Kolkata. Again, they claimed the date had been “planned for months.”

So, were they lying about the initial planning, or about the second date? Both cannot be true at the same time. This inconsistency fuels suspicion that these clashes may not be accidental. What is their motive in intentionally overshadowing other community events? Who ultimately bears the brunt of this chaotic scheduling?

Priorities in Question

GDG Kolkata’s approach raises another question: What are tech events truly about? Their biggest selling point seems to be a five-star venue, repeatedly highlighted in promotional material. But what about speakers, content, and value to the attendees? Reports suggest that even as the event approaches, GDG Kolkata’s organizers are still asking attendees for speaker recommendations in their Telegram channel.

If this is the level of preparation, what does it say about their priorities? Are tech events about posh venues and fancy food, or are they about creating a welcoming community, fostering learning, and facilitating meaningful interactions?

The Cost of Luxury

Hosting an event in a five-star venue undoubtedly comes at a premium. But who is paying that cost? The attendees. Why not opt for a more affordable venue and let the attendees benefit from reduced ticket prices? Events should strike a balance between quality and accessibility. This insistence on luxury raises concerns about where the organizers’ focus truly lies—on the experience or on appearances?

Transparency Missing in Action

For an organization repeatedly accused of financial mismanagement, transparency is key to rebuilding trust. Yet, GDG Kolkata has yet to produce a balance sheet for their previous events, including DevFest 2022 and 2023. Where is the money going? How much is spent on venues, food, and swags versus actual event content and community development? Without these answers, skepticism is bound to grow.

What’s Next?

GDG Kolkata’s date debacle is more than a logistical error—it’s a reflection of deeper issues in planning, transparency, and priorities. The community deserves better: better organization, better communication, and better focus on what truly matters in a tech event. Until these issues are addressed, GDG Kolkata risks alienating the very community it claims to serve.

Let’s hope future announcements don’t miss the mark—again.

Everyone who has been blocked and banned by GDG Kolkata organizers are welcome to send me their stories at u6i1ncdr5@mozmail.com