Lallianzuala Chhangte is an exception in Indian football. He can also be called an exception in the world of fame and money. After having grabbed the best footballer’s award in India’s men’s football from the Football Players of Association of India (FPAI) last month, the ‘Mizo Flash’ as he is called for his sheer speed and versatility on the pitch, was chosen as the men’s footballer of the year by the All India Football Federation (AIFF).

The 27-year-old wing-forward was also exceptional when he sacrificed his team's celebration after the triumph of the ISL Cup and returned home to appear for his Bachelor of Arts (BA) final examination. 

Chhangte when reminded smilingly said while speaking from his home at Imphal “I want to take my study with the same seriousness as football." 

Chhangte completed his graduation with history from Hrangbana College. He sounded proud of the subject. He boasted while speaking, "I am passionate about history.  Today I feel although studying history does not have any direct relationship with my football, it has helped me to develop my emotions and commitment. This emotion and commitment is reflected in my football." 

Chhangte who received the AIFF’s Player of the Year’ award for the second time to become the fifth Indian footballer to have achieved multiple awards and scored 11 goals for Mumbai City FC in all competitions last season, was remembering his childhood coach Montima along with his family members. "I am grateful to my parents, especially my grandpa. At the same time I remember the huge contribution of childhood coach Montima,” divulged Chhangte.

Montima was once a footballer, also a former coach of the Mizoram state team and presently continuing his coaching. He took Chhangte to the Academy of state sports and Youth Services when the footballer was only 13 years old. 

“His tutelage taught me a lot of things on the pitch. If you talk about my speed and close control with the ball then I should say I learned the basics of this skill under Montima’s careful guidance. Even today when I go back home during the off-season I train under his observation. He is still my coach. I take advice still from him.”