The Final Collective Memories – Stories from Sharath’s Friends & Students
Welcome to episode four 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, Episode 2 and Episode 3 to begin the journey.
In this fourth episode, it will be the last time we bring collective voices in one place . Over these collective four episodes , the memories shared have revealed not only the depth of Sharath’s connection to people, but also how the practice of Ashtanga Yoga shapes all of us us in deeply personal ways, yet also binds us together through a shared thread – connection.
It’s a thread Sharath carried for decades. Whether you met him once or every year, he had a way of making you feel part of something larger. So as we step into a new chapter of the tradition, that connection is ours to hold and pass on.
So in this final, collective episode, we share a mix of humour, honesty, tenderness, and devotion. There are moments of being seen, challenged, and cared for. Together, these stories paint a picture of a man who could carry the weight of a lineage while still making space for laughter, mischief, and joy. 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.
In this episode, you’ll hear from:
Peg Mulqueen
Peg remembers Sharath’s quiet support through grief, offering steadiness and laughter when it was needed most.
Tom Norrington-Davis
Tom recalls the playful teasing and sharp precision that left you feeling both challenged and seen.
John Bultman
John offers a portrait of quiet sacrifice, deep listening, and patient guidance.
Rocket Caleshu
Rocket reflects on the joy and simplicity with which Sharath passed on the practice.
John Tattva
Jon shares the warmth of speaking with him in Kannada, the magic of the old shala, and life-changing connections.
David Robson & Jelena Vesic
David & Jelena speak to the evolution of their relationship with him, from fierce discipline to unexpected softness.
David Swenson
David takes us back to the boy Sharath once was, someone who was full of light, laughter, and mischief.
These voices remind us that an imprint can be left in the smallest gestures, in the hardest lessons, and in the joy that lingers long after someone is gone.
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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.
