Ishaan Khatter on his fitness, travel experiences, and fashion inspiration: 'My mom had a very cool, eclectic fashion sense'

Ishaan Khatter has managed to rule our hearts with his undeniable charm. (Image: Ishaan Khatter/Instagram)

The internet was abuzz when Ishaan Khatter strutted down the runway at Lakmé Fashion Week for Saaksha & Kinni. The moment was nothing short of jaw-dropping as he removed his shirt, revealing his chiselled abs and toned physique, leaving the audience in awe. But the actor is no stranger to viral moments.

Although his career as a child actor didn't take off with Vaah! Life Ho Toh Aisi! (2005), Ishaan has still managed to capture our hearts with his undeniable charm, or 'rizz', as Gen Z would say. Now, he’s made his way to Hollywood with his debut in The Perfect Couple and is set to captivate audiences with his highly anticipated OTT release The Royals on Netflix.

In an exclusive interview with moneycontrol.com, Ishaan Khatter gives us an inside look at his fitness routine, favourite grooming essentials, travel bucket list, and much more. Edited excerpts below:

 Q. You’re known for your incredible energy and fitness. What does your daily workout routine look like?

My workout routine usually depends on the character I’m preparing for. My foundation is in dancing, which initially got me into bodyweight training and calisthenics. I also enjoy sports, so I take every opportunity to play whatever sport catches my interest at the time. But it always varies depending on the role. For example, during my training for The Royals, I had to gain about 6-7 kilos of lean muscle, so I focused heavily on weight training. For a later role, I needed to lose about 10 kilos, which meant my training was minimal. Generally, I train about six times a week with a mix of weight training and Pilates. I also have a hip joint injury, so Pilates helps keep me injury-free while strengthening my leg muscles.

Ishaan Khatter walked the ramp for Saaksha & Kinni at Lakme Fashion Week. (Image: Instagram)

Q. How would you describe your personal style?

Eclectic, but also classic. Comfortable, yet edgy.

Q. Who are your fashion inspirations?

I have a lot of fashion inspirations, but it all started at home. Growing up, my mom had a very cool, eclectic fashion sense. She somehow always managed to pull together amazing looks in the most unconventional way. She has a very strong, distinct style. Outside of her, I draw inspiration from many people, but among celebrities, I’d say David Beckham stands out for his suaveness and classic style—he always looks dapper. Johnny Depp is another favorite; his style is so effortless and cool, never overdone. My brother (Shahid Kapoor) also has his own distinct sense of style, which I admire. There are so many people I look up to for inspiration.

Ishaan Khatter spending time with his brother Shahid Kapoor. (Image: Instagram)

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Q. A grooming essential you never leave home without?

Sunscreen is a grooming essential I never skip.

Q. You seem to love adventure. What’s been your most memorable travel experience so far?

That's a tough question because I’ve had so many incredible travel experiences. But I’d say my biking road trips have been some of the most memorable. We crossed continents, navigating different terrains and climates, which made for an exciting adventure. More recently, I went to Australia, where I went skydiving and went snorkeling with Manta rays and a turtle as big as me—during a thunderstorm, no less! That was definitely an unforgettable adventure.

Q. Any bucket list destinations you’re dying to visit?

I really want to visit Spain and Kerala, as I haven’t been to either yet. And I’d love to visit Shillong as well.

Ishaan Khatter has an adventurous spirit and enjoys travelling. (Image: Instagram)

Q. When you’re not working, how do you unwind and relax?

I love sprawling out on the couch and watching something, whether it’s a film or a series. It’s my favorite way to relax. But I think the most mental peace I get is from watching a beautiful sunset while listening to great music.

Also Read | Ishaan Khatter makes his Hollywood debut next to Nicole Kidman in The Perfect Couple

Q. What’s a life lesson you’ve learned from working in the film industry?

I’ve learned the value of having genuine people and friends around me—people who don’t just agree with everything I say, who aren’t just “yes men.” The value of these real relationships becomes very clear when you interact with them daily.