At exactly 6 AM on Geetha Road, you’ll hear Ajay Kumar Mysore calling out “thighs to chest, thighs to chest!” as students attempt their first jump-backs at Sthalam8. His dynamic energy fills the intimate shala where traditional Ashtanga meets personalized instruction in Chamarajapuram.
About Ajay Kumar and Sthalam8
Location: #1108/3 CH-33/3, Geetha Road, Chamarajapuram, Mysore-570005
Contact: Available through s8ayvc.com
Instagram: @sthalam8
Class Timing: 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM (Mysore style)
Drop-in Rate: 800 per class
Monthly Package: 14,000 unlimited
Ajay Kumar started practicing at age 10 under BNS Iyengar, a direct disciple of Krishnamacharya. Now pursuing his Masters in Advaita Vedanta at Sanskrit University Mysore, he brings both traditional knowledge and academic depth to his teaching.
What Makes Sthalam8 Special
Thursday Vinyasa Classes:
Ajay’s signature Thursday sessions break down the jump-back and jump-through into individual components. He isolates each muscle group needed for these transitions, making advanced movements accessible to beginners.
Sunday Backbending Workshop:
Every Sunday morning features intensive backbending sessions. Students report significant progress in drop-backs and deeper backbends under Ajay’s careful guidance.
Teaching Style and Philosophy
Ajay Kumar’s approach emphasizes “we do yoga, not asanas.” His conferences blend traditional philosophy with practical application, often delivered spontaneously during practice sessions.
Signature Teaching Elements:
– Intense physical adjustments with clear communication
– Emphasis on proper vinyasa technique
– Integration of breathwork with movement
– Individual attention despite group settings
– Philosophical discussions during practice
The Sthalam8 Community
Beyond yoga classes, Sthalam8 functions as a family environment. Key community members include:
Shiva Prakash: Assistant teacher providing secondary adjustments and beginner guidance
Deepak: Cook and operations manager who prepares post-practice breakfasts (150-200)
Jayashree: Administrative coordinator handling bookings and schedules
Weekly Community Events
Friday Evening Programs:
– Community dinner prepared by Deepak (250 per person)
– Puja (prayer ceremony) at 7:30 PM
– Conference with Ajay for Q&A sessions
– Special kirtan sessions during festivals
These Friday gatherings strengthen the shala community and provide opportunities for deeper yogic learning beyond asana practice.
Practical Information
Booking Requirements:
Email Sthalam8 2-3 months in advance, especially for peak season (November-February). Include your arrival dates and yoga experience level.
Payment Methods:
– Cash (preferred)
– Bank transfer for monthly packages
– No card payments accepted
Location and Transportation
From Gokulam Area:
– Auto-rickshaw: 80-120 (15-20 minutes)
– City bus #201 to Chamarajapuram: 15
– Scooter rental: 250-300 per day
From Railway Station:
– Auto-rickshaw: 150-200
– Prepaid taxi: 250-300
– City bus with one transfer: 25
Accommodation Near Sthalam8
Chamarajapuram offers fewer yoga-specific accommodations compared to Gokulam. Most students stay in Gokulam and commute to Sthalam8.
Nearby Options:
– Hotel Mayura Hoysala: 3,500-5,000 per night
– Local guest houses: 1,200-2,500 per night
– Homestays: 800-1,500 per night
What Students Say
International students consistently praise Ajay’s ability to see and correct subtle alignment issues. His adjustments, while sometimes intense, are described as transformative for understanding proper form.
“Ajay has incredible energy and presence. Even with 15 students in the room, he notices everything. His vinyasa breakdowns changed my entire practice.” – Student review
Lineage and Credentials
Training Background:
– Started practice at age 10
– Studied under BNS Iyengar at Shri Pathanjala Yoga Shala
– Part of Krishnamacharya lineage
– Yoga Alliance certified instructor
– Currently studying Advaita Vedanta at Sanskrit University
Seasonal Schedule Variations
Peak Season (November-February):
– Higher student numbers (15-20 per class)
– Advance booking essential
– Additional assistant teachers present
Off-Season (April-September):
– Smaller groups (8-12 students)
– More personalized attention
– Easier accommodation booking
Teacher Training Opportunities
Sthalam8 offers Yoga Alliance certified teacher training programs. These intensive courses combine Ajay’s dynamic teaching style with traditional Ashtanga methodology.
TTC Details:
– 200-hour and 300-hour programs available
– Small batch sizes (maximum 12 students)
– Includes philosophy, anatomy, teaching methodology
– Investment: 2,25,000 for 200-hour program
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sthalam8 suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, but Ajay’s style is quite dynamic. Beginners should be prepared for intensive instruction and may want to start with some basic yoga experience for better understanding.
How do I get to Sthalam8 from Gokulam accommodations?
Auto-rickshaw is the most convenient option (80-120). Many students also rent scooters for the month to have flexible transportation between areas.
What’s included in the Friday evening programs?
Dinner costs 250 extra. The puja and conference with Ajay are included for all monthly package students. Drop-in students can join for an additional 200.
Can I visit Sthalam8 for just one class to try it out?
Yes, drop-in classes are available for 800. However, Ajay’s teaching style is best experienced over several sessions to understand his methodology fully.
How far in advance should I book during peak season?
Email at least 2-3 months ahead for November-February visits. Include backup dates as popular periods fill quickly, especially around Dasara festival time.
Last Updated: April 2025
Next Update: Before monsoon season