It’s seemingly impossible to fill the void left in Indian football after Sunil Chhetri's retirement, but some young talents are roaring to prove their mettle. One of them is Ishan Pandita, who will be plying his trade for Kerala Blasters this season. Pandita is young, dashing, and debonair. He has played everywhere from the streets of Manilla to the alleys of Spain, before settling his foot where it all began. Born in New Delhi, Pandita moved to the Philippines at the tender age of four, because of his father's job. He fell in love with the game early, and got his first breakthrough in 2012, in a talent hunt organised by Manchester United. In 2016, Pandita became the first Indian to sign a professional La Liga contract with CD Leganes. As the new season of the Indian Super League reckons, we talk to the Kerala Blasters' forward about his morning routine. 

How do you start your morning? 

A cup of strong Americano is a must to start my day. If possible, I try to get some sunlight. I listen to spiritual music and do meditations. It's good to have some quiet time alone to begin the day. 

How do you like your coffee?  

I like it very simple. Pure black without any sugar. 

What's sitting on your bathroom shelf? 

Other than facewash and other grooming essentials, I keep a good collection of perfumes. I can't tell you which one because it keeps changing. 

What does your breakfast look like? 
I don't like having breakfast. I believe there are a lot of health benefits of skipping breakfast. I picked up this habit when I was in Spain. I have my first meal at noon. 

Tell us about your workout. 

When I am training with my club, I follow their schedule. I usually try to work out for two hours daily. I also have a personal gym which I use when I am not engaged with the club. 

What’s your morning music? 

I don't want to reveal that, but it's mostly soothing, meditative songs. 

What do you listen to before the match?  

I like electro, techno, and the upbeat stuff to get me in the mood for the battle. 

Do you like to read? 

Reading a book has become a bit difficult for me. I can't commit, and I want to get better at it. Reading off my phone and laptop is something I usually do. 

What’s your haircare routine? 

I don’t have a routine. It depends on the hairstyle. Since I have short hair now, I just put a bit of hair spray and style it with my comb. 

Three things on your nightstand? 

My phone, lip balm, and Vicks inhaler. 

You play for Kerala Blasters. Which are your favourite Kerala cuisines? 

I like the typical Kerala meals. I like appam, puttu, idiyappam.