B.K.S. Iyengar

"Yoga teaches us to cure what need not be endured and endure what cannot be cured."

Bellur Krishnamachar Sundararaja Iyengar (14 December 1918 – 20 August 2014), better known as B.K.S. Iyengar, was the founder of the style of modern yoga known as "Iyengar Yoga" and was considered one of the foremost yoga teachers in the world. He was the author of many books on yoga practice and philosophy. Iyengar was one of the earliest students of Tirumalai Krishnamacharya, who is often referred to as "the father of modern yoga". He has been credited with popularizing yoga, first in India and then around the world. The Indian government awarded Iyengar the Padma Shri in 1991, the Padma Bhushan in 2002 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2014. In 2004, Iyengar was named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time magazine.

What subjects and genres does B.K.S. Iyengar write about?

Iyengar's books focus on yoga practice and philosophy, including asana technique, pranayama (breath work), the Yoga Sutras, and applying yoga to daily life. His work is the basis of modern Iyengar Yoga.

Which book is best to start with to learn his method?

Light on Yoga is widely regarded as his definitive guide to practice and is a common starting point. For breathing practice and philosophy, consider Light on Pranayama and Light on the Yoga Sutras respectively.

Are his books suitable for beginners or for advanced practitioners?

His books range from practical step-by-step guides to deep philosophical texts. Light on Yoga serves as a comprehensive practical manual useful to dedicated beginners and experienced practitioners, while titles like Light on Pranayama and the Yoga Sutras are more specialized.

What are some of B.K.S. Iyengar's most popular books?

Notable titles include Light on Yoga; Light on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali; Light on Life; The Tree of Yoga; Light on Pranayama; Sparks of Divinity; Core of the Yoga Sutras; and B.K.S. Iyengar Yoga: The Path to Holistic Health.

What recognition has B.K.S. Iyengar received for his work?

He was awarded the Padma Shri (1991), Padma Bhushan (2002) and Padma Vibhushan (2014) by the Indian government, and was named one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people in 2004.