BKS Iyengar

About

Widely regarded as one of the world's most distinguished teachers of yoga, this creator of Iyengar Yoga wrote several books outlining his philosophy and practice. He was a 2014 recipient of the prestigious Padma Vibhushan.

Before Fame

During his childhood years, he suffered from malnutrition and was, at different times, diagnosed with tuberculosis, malaria, and typhoid fever. On the invitation of his sister's husband, the yogi Sri Tirumalai Krishnamacharya, he began practicing yoga as a means of improving his health.

Trivia

A philanthropist as well as a yogi, he donated millions of rupees to the Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens in Mysore, India.

Family Life

With his wife Ramamani, he raised one son and five daughters. Two of his children, Prashant and Geeta, became world-famous yoga teachers.

Associated With

The renowned violinist Yehudi Menuhin was among Iyengar's yoga disciples.