In brief
The world mourns the loss of Sharath Jois, a revered figure in modern yoga who championed Ashtanga, a dynamic yoga style popularized by his grandfather.
Sharath Jois, the esteemed yoga master and custodian of the Ashtanga tradition, has died at the age of 53 following a heart attack while hiking on a trail near the University of Virginia. His sister, Sharmila Mahesh, and yoga program manager John Bultman confirmed the news on Monday.Jois had made a name for himself as a prominent teacher of Ashtanga yoga, a physical and meditative practice that his grandfather, Krishna Pattabhi Jois, helped popularize globally starting in the 1990s. This method, known for its vigorous progression through a series of postures and flows, has attracted countless practitioners, including notable celebrities such as Gwyneth Paltrow and Madonna.As the “Paramaguru,” or lineage holder, Jois claimed his grandfather's legacy and taught workshops around the world, with many attendees seeking his guidance to deepen their connection to Ashtanga yoga. In Mysore, India, often referred to as the birthplace of Ashtanga, he earned the affectionate title of "the boss," with classes selling out almost instantly as enthusiasts sought to learn from his expertise.His impact on the yoga community was substantial, exemplified by the growing crowds attending his sessions each year. Student Isha Singh Sawhney, who co-authored Jois's 2018 book "Ageless," praised him as "one of the best" yoga teachers of his generation. As the community reflects on his sudden passing, the legacy of Sharath Jois's teachings will undoubtedly continue to shape the world of yoga for years to come.
