Every morning at 6 AM, 12 authorized Ashtanga teachers in Mysore open their shalas across Gokulam and Lakshmipuram neighborhoods, serving over 300 international students during peak season. These Level 1 and Level 2 authorized instructors learned directly from Pattabhi Jois, Sharath Jois, or Saraswathi Jois, maintaining authentic lineage through decades of dedicated practice.
Quick Reference: Active Authorized Teachers 2025
Total Authorized Teachers: 12 active instructors in Mysore
Authorization Levels: Level 1 (Primary), Level 2 (Primary + Intermediate)
Monthly Class Fees: 20,000 – 25,000 per month
Average Class Size: 12-25 students maximum
Teaching Season: August to April annually
Minimum Registration: 1 month commitment
Location Concentration: Gokulam (8 teachers), Lakshmipuram (4 teachers)
Level 2 Authorized Teachers Currently Active
Vijay Kumar (Ashtanga Saadhana): Located in Gokulam since 2017, teaching from August to April. Monthly fees 25,000 with 40-45 students during peak season. Two daily batches: 6:00-8:00 AM and 8:45-10:45 AM. Minimum one-month registration required. Known for precise adjustments and systematic Primary Series progression.
MV Chidananda (Sachidananda Ashtanga Yoga Shala): Gokulam location with maximum 14 students per batch divided into two sessions if needed. Monthly fees 22,000. Teaches almost year-round with only May break. Website: myashtangayoga.com. Emphasizes breath-bandha coordination and injury prevention techniques.
Ramesh Shetty (Mysore Ashtanga Yoga Shala): 41+ years teaching experience with specialization in asana alignment. Located at #186/A, 4th floor, Mahalakshmi Apartment, 9th Cross Road, 3rd Stage Gokulam. Known for therapeutic approach and detailed anatomical understanding.
- Bharath Shetty (Bharatha Yoga Shala): 24,000/month – Traditional Hatha/Ashtanga combination
- Vinay Kumar (Prana Vashya Yoga): 23,000/month – Unique Prana Vashya method
- Ajay Kumar: 21,000/month – Small class sizes (15 max)
Level 1 Authorized Teachers Worth Studying With
Praveen Somu (Mysore Hatha Yoga Kendra): Operating since February 2011, teaches age groups from 6 to 65 in separate batches. Diploma in yoga from Annamalai University and Pranayama/meditation certification from Mysore University. Fees 20,000 monthly for regular classes.
Most Level 1 teachers focus exclusively on Primary Series but offer deeper understanding of foundational elements. They typically accommodate 15-20 students maximum, providing more individual attention than larger established shalas. Many students prefer this personalized approach for building strong practice fundamentals.
Authorization Process and Requirements
Authorization comes only from direct KPJAYI lineage – currently Saraswathi Jois at KPJAYI or previously from Sharath Jois. Level 1 authorization permits teaching Primary Series after typically 10-15 years of dedicated practice and multiple trips to Mysore for evaluation. Level 2 adds Intermediate Series teaching permission.
The process involves years of consistent practice, demonstration of teaching ability, understanding of traditional methodology, and commitment to preserving authentic Ashtanga transmission. Only 47 teachers worldwide hold Certification (the highest level), making authorized teachers relatively rare globally.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many authorized Ashtanga teachers currently teach in Mysore?
Approximately 12 authorized teachers actively offer classes in Mysore as of 2025. This includes both Level 1 and Level 2 authorized instructors, with most concentrated in Gokulam and Lakshmipuram neighborhoods.
What’s the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 authorized teachers?
Level 1 authorization permits teaching Primary Series only. Level 2 authorized teachers can instruct both Primary and Intermediate Series. Both levels require years of dedicated practice and evaluation by KPJAYI lineage holders.
How much do classes cost with authorized Ashtanga teachers in Mysore?
Monthly fees range 20,000-25,000 for unlimited daily classes. Payment required upfront in Indian rupees. Higher fees typically reflect teacher experience, class size limits, or additional services like philosophy discussions.
Do I need prior Ashtanga experience to study with authorized teachers?
Most authorized teachers accept beginners but expect basic yoga knowledge. Some prefer students with Ashtanga foundation from home practice. Contact teachers directly about experience requirements before booking flights to Mysore.
How can I verify if a Mysore teacher is genuinely authorized?
Check official KPJAYI website (kpjayshala.com) or Sharath Yoga Centre website for current authorized teacher lists. Genuine authorization includes teacher photos, levels, and contact information. Avoid teachers who can’t provide verification.
Last Updated: April 2025
Next Update: New authorization announcements