A Life Remembered, A Practice Continued – Stories from Sharath’s Friends & Students
Welcome to episode three of Memories of Sharath Jois, a special podcast series where we honour the life, teachings, and legacy of Sharath Jois, one of the most beloved figures in the Ashtanga Yoga tradition. If you’re joining for the first time, you can listen to Episode 1 and Episode 2 to begin the journey.
In this third episode, we hear from students who shared a long and deeply personal relationship with Sharath over many years. These voices reflect the strength of connection he fostered through quiet presence, playful humour, and a steady, compassionate gaze that saw people as they were.
Each story offers a glimpse into the profound simplicity of how he taught: by showing up fully, again and again.
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Why Memories of Sharath Jois?
Sharath Jois stood at the centre of the modern Ashtanga Yoga lineage – not just as a teacher, but as someone who held space for thousands of practitioners around the world. Through this series, we honour his unique place in the Ashtanga story and preserve the living memory of his life and teachings.
As Stillpoints host Scott Johnson shares:
“When I heard Sharath had passed, I felt something shift. I didn’t know him personally, but through the stories of his students and family, I came to see just how deeply he shaped the practice and the people around it.”
In this episode, you’ll hear from:
Karen Cairns – The Devoted Elder Student
“His face lit up when he saw you. Every time. That meant the world.”
Now nearly 80, Karen reflects on over two decades of yearly practice in Mysore — sharing how Sharath’s presence remained kind, encouraging, and full of love, even through surgeries and aging.
Taylor Hunt – Transformation & Trust
“I was in recovery. And he just said, ‘I’ll help you start a program.’ He trusted me.”
Taylor shares how Sharath’s quiet encouragement helped him build a yoga-based addiction recovery community — and how that trust transformed his life and the lives of many others.
Joseph & Edgar – Intimacy, Laughter, and Legacy
“We were caught making his bed — he just laughed and made us tea.”
From photography and GoPros to coconuts and jokes, Joseph and Edgar reflect on the gentle, human side of Sharath — a teacher who saw them, supported them, and made space for lightness.
Priya Jhawar – Family, Food, and the Feminine Thread
““For me, being away from my family, it was so sweet to be embraced by theirs”
Priya brings a familial warmth, sharing stories of shared meals, sibling-like affection, and the joy Sharath brought to those closest to him — especially children and family.
Dominic Corigliano – The Bridge to the Old Days
“I watched Sharath carry the weight of a whole tradition. And he did it with such dignity.”
Dominic recalls the early days of travelling with Sharath and Pattabhi Jois — offering a multi-generational view of how Sharath slowly stepped into his role and held it with grace.
Matt Corigliano – Second-Generation Devotion
“I was just a kid. Then one day, he saw me — really saw me.”
Matt speaks to the subtle mentorship Sharath offered across years — from playful encouragement to deep recognition — and how that helped shape him as both practitioner and person.
Alex Medin – The Honest Wound & the Final Reflection
“Our relationship changed over the years. But my love and respect for him has never left.””
In one of the most candid reflections of the series, Alex shares both gratitude and grief. His story brings the episode to a close with honesty, complexity, and enduring love.
Listen Now On:
Why We’re Remembering Sharath Jois
Through these memories, we hold on to what connects us, our shared experiences, the lessons learned, and the wisdom that continues to guide us. As we reflect on Sharath’s legacy, we are reminded of what it means to truly live the practice of Ashtanga Yoga. This series serves as a tribute to the man who led with such grace, who transformed lives with his teachings, and whose spirit continues to live on.
Pictures on this page were lovingly taken by Edgar Navarro at Miami Life Centre.
