South Africa were six for two in the seventh over of their innings but a 285-run stand for the third wicket between Kallis and Amla saw the visitors end the day on 291 for two with both the batsmen unbeaten on 159 and 115 respectively.
"It was a good batting track. In the first hour the ball did something and unfortunately we lost two quick wickets but after that me and Amla could build a big partnership and carried the bat through the day," Kallis said after the first day's play.
"The message from the dressing room was keep going till the end (of the day). So our plan was to carry the bat through the day and it fell through," he added.
With lots of batting to come in the visitors' innings, Smith said his side would look to post a big total to put pressure on the Indians.
"We will try to bat as long as possible tomorrow and see how it goes. We would want a big score," he said.
Amla said there was some reverse swing going in the final session but they were able to negotiate it.
"There was some reverse swing after tea but we were able to negotiate the Indian bowlers. Happy that we could implement our plans," Amla said.