A Tribute to my Beloved Guruji Sri.R Sharath Jois.

by Sandeep Shiva Shankar.

My journey with Guru Ji Sri R Sharath Jois began in 2010, a time when I was merely seeking something for myself. Yet, under his gentle and powerful guidance, Ashtanga Yoga became more than a practice; it became my life’s anchor. His profound dedication and deep wisdom drew me deeper into the essence of this path, changing not only my relationship with yoga but also my understanding of myself and the world around me.

In 2017, my life took an unexpected yet transformative turn when Guruji granted me authorization to teach. It was a moment filled with gratitude and humility. His faith in me was a powerful force that shaped my practice and my teaching. My 3:30 am batch sessions were not just practice; they were sacred times of devotion, where I, along with others privileged enough to be there, became part of Guruji’s extended family. His warmth, grace, and unwavering commitment to his students have left an indelible mark on my heart, and every moment spent under his guidance has been a step on the path of self-discovery and spiritual growth. He embodied the true essence of the guru-shishya Parampara, teaching us that the bond between teacher and student is one of devotion, discipline, and spiritual growth—a sacred lineage passed down with purity and integrity. His guidance and blessings will remain eternally within me, and he will forever be my only guru, lighting my path with his wisdom and grace.

It is with a heart weighed down by immense sorrow that I share the passing of my beloved Guruji, Sri R. Sharath Jois, a legendary figure in the world of Ashtanga Yoga and the guiding force behind countless practitioners around the globe. Guruji’s legacy now becomes the guiding light for all that I do. As I move forward, I am filled with a profound sense of duty to honor his teachings and carry forth the true essence of Mysore-style practice. His spirit and teachings will forever be alive in every breath and every posture I take and share with others. I dedicate my past, present, and future to his grace, praying to be led with purity and purpose, to inspire others as he inspired me, and to walk on the path he has so beautifully paved for all of us. His life, legacy, and light will continue to resonate through the countless lives he touched, a beacon for every Ashtanga practitioner and an eternal blessing for those of us privileged to have known him as our guru.