B. K. S. Iyengar, or Bellur Krishnamachar Sundararaja Iyengar, was a prominent Indian yoga teacher known for his role in popularizing yoga worldwide. Born on December 14, 1918, Iyengar is often credited with developing Iyengar Yoga, a form that emphasizes precision, alignment, and the use of props to enhance postures and improve accessibility to practitioners of all levels.
Iyengar began practicing yoga at a young age, and throughout his life, he studied extensively under his guru, Sri Krishnamacharya. He founded the Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute in Pune, India, in 1975, which has since become a global center for yoga education.
His book "Light on Yoga," published in 1966, is considered a classic in the field and includes detailed descriptions of yoga postures, breathing techniques, and philosophical insights. Iyengar's teachings have influenced numerous yoga schools and styles, and his emphasis on therapeutic applications of yoga has made it accessible for individuals with various health conditions.
Iyengar continued to teach and share his knowledge of yoga until his passing on August 20, 2014. His legacy endures through his writings, his students, and the many practitioners who continue to embrace and teach Iyengar Yoga around the world.
