Shri K. Pattabhi Jois . Charitable Trust

The practice of yoga contains within it a spirit of service, to work selflessly for the good of all mankind. Shri K. Pattabhi Jois, or Guruji as he is affectionately known, dedicated his life to spreading the wisdom of yoga and embodied this spirit.

We established the Shri K. Pattabhi Jois Charitable Trust in 2005 in honor of Guruji's 90th birthday, when more than 800 students and friends from around the world gathered to pay respect to their guru.

Caring for others and compassionate philanthropy Initiatives are selected to improve and strengthen the lives of economically disadvantaged families and children, underserved communities and the environment. Guruji and his family believe that this can be achieved through caring for others and compassionate philanthropy.

100% of our funds go to projects One hundred percent of our fund goes to charitable projects in the local community. We are also exempt from income tax as a charitable organization under Section 12A and 80(G) of India’s Income Tax Act (1961).

A special Tribute book was also produced in June 2002 for the opening of the new Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute in Gokulam. It commemorates Sri K. Pattabhi Jois's 64 years of teaching and living in Lakshmipuram. It is the first comprehensive recording of Guruji's life, chronicling his introduction and lifetime dedication to yoga.

The concept that we are all one underlies everything that we do.

To practice yoga is to be concerned with human welfare and the alleviation of suffering. As Guruji said, “The science of yoga is useful to the entire human community, and yields happiness both here and hereafter.”

Effecting long-term change We aim to effect long-term, systemic, change in the community. We work with anyone in need, particularly the poor and weak, regardless of their circumstance, age, caste, creed or religion. We promote spiritual and educational development, mental and physical rehabilitation, and work towards providing medical and occupational aid and shelter to those in need.

  May all be well with mankind.   May the leaders of the earth protect in every way by keeping to the right path.   May there be goodness for those who know the earth to be sacred   May all the worlds be happy.   (The Mangala Mantra is used as the closing prayer to our yoga practice)