B.K.S. Iyengar and His Contribution to the Yogic World
Whether you’re practicing Ashtanga in Boulder, Yee Yoga in New York, or Anusara in San Francisco, your practice has likely been influenced—directly or indirectly—by the legendary B.K.S. Iyengar. Widely regarded as the “father of modern yoga”, Iyengar is one of the most influential yoga masters of the 20th century. His contributions revolutionized yoga, making it accessible, therapeutic, and global.
Early Life of B.K.S. Iyengar
Born on December 14, 1918, in Bellur, India, Iyengar faced immense hardship in his childhood. He was the eleventh of thirteen children, suffered from malaria, typhoid, tuberculosis, and severe malnutrition, and lost his father at the age of nine.
In search of better health, Iyengar began practicing yoga at age 15 under the guidance of Sri Tirumalai Krishnamacharya, one of the greatest yogis of modern times. Despite a challenging teacher-student relationship, Iyengar persevered and transformed his weak body into one of strength and flexibility through relentless yoga practice.
Journey as a Yoga Teacher
At 18 years old, Iyengar moved to Pune, where he began teaching yoga. His big break came in 1952, when he met the world-renowned violinist Yehudi Menuhin, who became both his student and advocate. This meeting opened doors for Iyengar to travel and teach in Europe and the U.S.
Iyengar soon became a global yoga icon, with students that included Aldous Huxley, Annette Bening, Donna Karan, Kareena Kapoor, and even Queen Elisabeth of Belgium, whom he taught to perform a headstand at age 85.
Iyengar Yoga: A Holistic Discipline
B.K.S. Iyengar founded the Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute (RIMYI) in Pune in 1975, in memory of his wife. His yoga system, known as Iyengar Yoga, is based on the eight-limbed path of Patanjali and focuses on precision, timing, and alignment.
Core Principles of Iyengar Yoga:
- Use of Props: Iyengar pioneered the use of blocks, straps, bolsters, chairs, and blankets to help all practitioners—regardless of age or flexibility—achieve proper alignment.
- Focus on Alignment: Correct body positioning is key to ensure safety and effectiveness in each pose.
- Sequencing: Each session follows a methodical progression to develop strength, flexibility, and internal awareness.
- Accessibility: Iyengar Yoga is suitable for all ages, body types, and skill levels.
- Long Holds, Not Flow: Unlike Vinyasa, poses are held longer, helping to build stamina, focus, and mental clarity.
Certifications and Standardized Teaching
Only Certified Iyengar Yoga Teachers (CIYTs) are authorized to use the term “Iyengar Yoga”. These teachers undergo years of rigorous training, assessment, and continuing education. This ensures a consistent, high-quality learning experience worldwide.
CIYTs are trained to:
- Provide clear, detailed instructions
- Use props effectively for all body types
- Customize sequences for therapeutic needs
- Guide students through physical, emotional, and spiritual layers (kosas) of being
Therapeutic and Medical Contributions
B.K.S. Iyengar was one of the first yogis to demonstrate yoga’s therapeutic value in treating illness, injury, and chronic pain. His personalized sequences and use of props have helped athletes, dancers, musicians, and even people with severe disabilities recover and thrive.
His teachings helped bridge the gap between yoga and modern medicine, gaining recognition in hospitals, physiotherapy clinics, and wellness centers globally.
Legacy and Influence
B.K.S. Iyengar passed away in 2014 at the age of 95, leaving behind a vast and influential legacy. He was survived by his children Prashant, Geeta, and five others, many of whom became respected yoga teachers.
Iyengar received numerous national and international honors, including:
- Padma Shri (1991)
- Padma Bhushan (2002)
- Padma Vibhushan (2014)
- Named one of TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in 2004
Key Publications by B.K.S. Iyengar
B.K.S. Iyengar was also a prolific writer whose books remain foundational texts in yoga studies:
- Light on Yoga (1966) – A global bestseller, often called the “yoga bible.”
- Light on Pranayama – Focused on breathing techniques and their transformative power.
- Light on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali – A translation and commentary on Patanjali’s classical text.
- Light on Life – Explores the deeper spiritual and psychological dimensions of yoga.
Why B.K.S. Iyengar’s Legacy Matters
B.K.S. Iyengar didn’t just teach yoga—he democratized it. He made it accessible, safe, inclusive, and scientifically respected. His approach invites every individual, regardless of age, shape, or background, to unite body, mind, and soul through consistent and mindful practice.
His teachings continue to impact:
- Yoga studios across six continents
- Yoga therapy in medical institutions
- The curriculum for yoga teacher training worldwide
- Everyday practitioners striving for health and inner peace
