I recently interviewed with Kutumb for an Android SDE-1 role, and the overall experience left me disappointed enough to share it here so other candidates stay aware.

Interview Process

Round 1 – Android Fundamentals + Scenario-Based Discussion

• Questions were focused on Android fundamentals and practical scenarios around ViewModel, RecyclerView, lifecycle handling, etc.
• I was able to answer all the questions confidently.
• The interviewer’s response during the round was positive, and I was informed that the feedback was good.

Round 2 – Live Coding

• Task: Implement a timer with Start/Stop functionality.
• I completed the implementation successfully within the given 1-hour duration.
• Even during the call, the interviewer explicitly mentioned that the feedback was positive.

What Happened Next

• The same evening, I received a rejection email.
• When I tried connecting with HR for clarity, I was told vague reasons including allegations like “using AI/cheating” and similar assumptions — without any proper explanation or evidence.

Why This Feels Unprofessional

As someone with prior Android development experience, this entire situation felt extremely discouraging because:

• Positive feedback was repeatedly given during both rounds.
• The rejection reason communicated later completely contradicted the interview experience.
• Serious accusations like cheating should not be casually thrown at candidates without proof.
• Candidates invest time, preparation, and mental energy into these processes, especially in the current difficult job market.

Bigger Concern

One thing I’ve consistently noticed is that some companies keep Android openings active for long periods but rarely seem to close the positions. It creates a feeling that:

• Interviews are being conducted continuously without serious hiring intent, or
• Candidates are being filtered out inconsistently despite performing well.

Of course, rejection is completely acceptable, every company has its own bar and requirements.
But transparency and professionalism in communication matter a lot.

Final Thoughts

A company’s culture often reflects first in its hiring process.
Giving positive signals throughout the process and then rejecting candidates with vague accusations leaves a very poor impression. Interestingly, the HR handling the process was previously associated with Lokal and is now at Kutumb, hence I was expecting such a reply.

Just sharing my experience so fellow developers remain aware and manage expectations accordingly.