B.K.S. Iyengar, the author of the influential book 'Light on Yoga,' is a pivotal figure in the world of modern yoga. Born in 1918 in Karnataka, India, Iyengar overcame significant health challenges in his youth to become one of the most respected yoga teachers globally. His dedication to the practice and teaching of yoga has left a lasting legacy, not only through his writings but also through the establishment of Iyengar Yoga as a distinct style.
Early Life and Introduction to Yoga
Bellur Krishnamachar Sundararaja Iyengar, known as B.K.S. Iyengar, was born into a poor family and faced numerous health issues, including malaria, tuberculosis, and typhoid. These challenges left him weak and frail, but they also set the stage for his transformative journey into yoga. At the age of 18, Iyengar was introduced to yoga by his brother-in-law, the renowned yogi Sri Tirumalai Krishnamacharya.
Under Krishnamacharya's guidance, Iyengar began to practice yoga asanas, which gradually improved his health and flexibility. Despite a challenging start, Iyengar's dedication to yoga led him to become proficient in the practice, eventually teaching yoga to others. His early experiences with illness and recovery through yoga deeply influenced his teaching style, emphasizing precision and alignment to ensure the safety and effectiveness of each pose.
The Birth of 'Light on Yoga'
In 1966, Iyengar published 'Light on Yoga,' a comprehensive guide to yoga postures and breathing techniques. The book quickly gained international acclaim, becoming a best-seller and earning the nickname "the bible of modern yoga." Its success can be attributed to Iyengar's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to convey complex concepts in an accessible manner.
'Light on Yoga' not only provided detailed instructions for over 200 asanas but also included photographs of Iyengar demonstrating each pose. This visual element was groundbreaking at the time and helped practitioners understand the nuances of each posture. The book's influence extended beyond individual practitioners, shaping the way yoga was taught and practiced in studios worldwide.
Legacy and Influence
B.K.S. Iyengar's contributions to yoga extend far beyond 'Light on Yoga.' He is credited with popularizing yoga in the West, thanks in part to his association with prominent figures like the violinist Yehudi Menuhin. Iyengar's teaching style, characterized by its focus on alignment and the use of props, has become a cornerstone of modern yoga practice.
Iyengar's legacy is also evident in the numerous yoga teachers and practitioners who continue to follow his methods. His children, Geeta and Prashant Iyengar, have carried on his work, teaching and writing about yoga. The Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute in Pune, named in honor of his late wife, remains a center for Iyengar Yoga, attracting students from around the world.
Through his life and work, B.K.S. Iyengar has left an indelible mark on the world of yoga, inspiring countless individuals to explore the practice and its benefits.
