On the Light
Welcome to "On the Light," a podcast dedicated to illuminating the profound teachings and legacy of Yogacharya B.K.S. Iyengar.
Join us as we engage in enlightening conversations, diving deep into the life's work of B.K.S. Iyengar, whose dedication and insight have touched countless lives around the world. From his innovative approach to asana practice to his profound spiritual teachings, we'll uncover the essence of Iyengar Yoga and its relevance in today's world.
This podcast also explores the auspicious subject of yoga itself, delving into its ancient roots and texts, and receiving insight from established Iyengar Yoga teachers.
Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or just beginning your yoga practice, "On the Light" offers a space for learning and inspiration. Please enjoy “On the Light”.
“Yoga is a light, which once lit, will never dim. The better your practice, the brighter the flame.” B.K.S. Iyengar
On the Light
Episode 44: There Is So Much To Open Your Heart To Learn - Devki Desai
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Welcome back to On the Light. I’m your host, Susan Johnson. Today I’m joined by Devki Desai.
Devki’s journey with Iyengar Yoga began in Mumbai in the mid-1980s, when her father first brought her to class as a teenager. What began with some resistance soon became a lifelong path, shaped by early study with senior teachers and, soon after, direct exposure to B.K.S. Iyengar himself. Over the years, Devki’s life became deeply interwoven with the Institute in Pune—through practice, teaching, family, and seva.
In this conversation, Devki shares intimate stories of being guided and trained by Guruji, Geetaji, and Prashantji —three influences she never separates, but experiences as a woven whole. She reflects on learning to teach through direct instruction, observation, and responsibility; on being “thrown into” classes as a form of training; and on the grace that carried her through those formative years.
She also speaks movingly about pranayama, motherhood, devotion, and the subtle ways yoga shapes a life over time.
This is a conversation rich with memory, lineage, and lived experience, and I’m so grateful to share it with you.
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Please enjoy this episode of On the Light.