Nishchal Chandan juggles professional football and legal career

Panaji: When Indian football came to a standstill at the start of last season and every player wondered when they’d return to the field, Nishchal Chandan kept himself busy. He sweated it out in the gym, trained alone, and with plenty of time at hand, studied and cleared his bar exam.“Between June (2025) and January (2026), when football was forced into a break, I went to the courts and got experience for myself,” Nishchal told TOI. “It was a proud moment for me and the family, particularly because I was able to carry forward a part of the legacy my father left behind.”In January, Nishchal joined Inter Kashi and was part of Antonio Lopez Habas’ side, playing ten of the team’s 13 matches in the Indian Super League (ISL).

Playing in the top tier of Indian football for the first time, the defender gave a good account of himself.Now, as Indian football takes a break again for off season, Nishchal is back in court as a licensed advocate, enrolled with the Bar Council of Punjab & Haryana.“I will continue to pursue my football career, which is my top priority. But whenever I have time on hand, I will continue studying, going through landmark judgments and cases online.

I carry my laptop wherever I go, read books whenever I can. Now, many clubs are uncertain of taking part in the Durand Cup (starting next month) and if I am not there, I will use the time to gain more experience (in courts). I can train individually early morning and late evening, and head to the courts during the rest of the day,” said Nishchal, who shot to prominence after a spell with Churchill Brothers FC in the I-League.Nishchal lost his father, Bimal Chandan, a prominent lawyer, shortly after he turned 15 and since then was keen to carry the family’s legacy forward. At that young age, he didn’t really know what the future had in store for him, since football was also an important part of his life. “Football has always been my first love. Law has been a parallel journey of learning, discipline and growth. Now I can proudly say I have both.

”Not surprisingly, Nishchal is pursuing sports law. Last season, during his time with Inter Kashi, he saw how his teammate was accused of racially abusing an opponent – later exonerated -- a red card being rescinded and coach Habas’ suspension reduced.“The knowledge and experience I gain through law will help me contribute in some way to Indian football and help give back to the sport that has shaped my life,” said Nishchal.Now, as he awaits his next move with three clubs, including Inter Kashi, keen to have him for the season ahead, Nishchal is looking forward to another momentous occasion: stepping into and occupying his father’s chamber in the district court complex in Chandigarh.“I have already transferred it in my name. No achievement can replace my father’s presence, but I hope he is proud to see this day,” said Nishchal.