B.K.S. Iyengar: The Father of Modern Yoga | Baby Doulas

Bellur Krishnamachar Sundararaja Iyengar, known to the world as B.K.S. Iyengar, was an Indian yoga guru, founder of the Iyengar Yoga style, and author of several books on yoga practice and philosophy. Born on December 14, 1918, in Bellur, India, Iyengar's life was marked by an early introduction to yoga by his brother-in-law, Tirumalai Krishnamacharya. Iyengar's approach to yoga emphasized precise alignment, the use of props, and the development of strength, balance, and flexibility. Through his teachings and writings, Iyengar made yoga accessible to people worldwide, regardless of age, ability, or background. His most famous book, 'Light on Yoga,' published in 1966, is considered a seminal work in the field of yoga. Iyengar's legacy continues to inspire new generations of yogis, with his method being taught in thousands of studios globally. As a testament to his influence, Iyengar was awarded the Padma Shri in 1991 and the Padma Bhushan in 2002, two of India's highest civilian honors, for his contributions to the field of yoga.