At exactly 5:45 AM every morning, 45-50 dedicated practitioners gather outside Sharath Yoga Centre in Lakshmipuram, waiting for the doors to open for what many consider the most authentic Ashtanga experience outside the original KPJAYI. Since 2019, this independent shala continues the direct lineage of Pattabhi Jois through his grandson Sharath Jois.
Quick Information for Sharath Yoga Centre
Location: Lakshmipuram, Mysore (exact address varies – contact for current location)
Monthly Fee: 36,100 per month (no pro-rating)
Practice Times: 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM / 8:45 AM – 10:45 AM
Maximum Stay: 2 months per visit
Registration Window: 2-3 months advance booking
Prerequisite: 2 months practice with authorized teacher
Season: August to April annually
Student Limit: 45-50 practitioners per batch
Understanding the Sharath Jois Lineage Split
The tragic passing of Sharath Jois in November 2024 marked the end of an era. However, the Sharath Yoga Centre continues under the guidance of his family, particularly his wife Shruti Jois and their children. The 2024-2025 season proceeded with certified students assisting in teaching, maintaining the traditional Mysore-style approach that Sharath perfected over 34 years.
This separation from KPJAYI in 2019 created two distinct paths for serious Ashtanga practitioners. While KPJAYI under Saraswathi Jois maintains the original location and accepts beginners, Sharath Yoga Centre focused on intermediate to advanced practitioners with strict prerequisites.
Strict Entry Requirements You Must Meet
Since July 2019, Sharath Yoga Centre requires 2 months minimum practice with a Sharath-authorized or certified teacher. No exceptions. This policy eliminated casual tourists and ensured serious practitioners who understand traditional Ashtanga methodology and can safely practice independently.
Check the official Sharath Yoga Centre website for the current list of 300+ authorized teachers worldwide. Your teacher must provide written confirmation of your 2-month training period. Self-practice or online training doesn’t qualify – you need in-person instruction from the authorized teacher network.
Registration Process and Payment Details
Applications open 2-3 months before your intended arrival. Unlike KPJAYI’s rigid 3-month window, Sharath’s shala offers slightly more flexibility. You must pay the complete 36,100 upon registration in Mysore – no advance payments or installments accepted.
- Application submission: Online form with teacher authorization letter
- Confirmation wait: 1-2 weeks for approval notification
- Payment timing: Full amount due at first class attendance
- No refunds: Complete forfeiture if you leave early
Daily Practice Schedule and Atmosphere
The morning begins with opening chants led by students, followed by individual Mysore-style practice. Teachers move silently through the room, providing adjustments and guidance based on each student’s current series progression. The atmosphere emphasizes internal focus rather than external demonstration.
First batch (6:00-8:00 AM) typically accommodates more advanced practitioners working on Intermediate Series or beyond. Second batch (8:45-10:45 AM) includes Primary Series students and those transitioning between series. Wednesday conference discussions and Friday led Primary classes maintain traditional scheduling.
Current Status After Sharath’s Passing
The 2024-2025 season continued with family members and senior certified students maintaining daily operations. Shruti Jois, Sharath’s wife, provides guidance while their children Shraddha and Sambhav represent the next generation of this sacred lineage. The community’s support demonstrates Ashtanga yoga’s strength beyond any individual teacher.
Four certified students assisted throughout the season, ensuring practice quality remained high. The emphasis shifted toward collective responsibility and community support while honoring Sharath’s 34 years of dedicated teaching and lineage preservation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sharath Yoga Centre still operating after Sharath Jois passed away?
Yes, the center continues under family guidance with certified students assisting. The 2024-2025 season proceeded successfully, demonstrating the community’s commitment to preserving this lineage despite the tragic loss.
What are the exact fees for Sharath Yoga Centre in 2025?
36,100 per month for unlimited classes. Maximum 2-month stay per visit. Payment required in full upon registration in Mysore. No refunds or partial payments accepted under any circumstances.
How do I prove 2 months practice with an authorized teacher?
Your authorized teacher must provide written confirmation letter detailing your practice period, series progression, and readiness for independent practice. Online training or self-practice doesn’t meet requirements.
What’s the difference between Sharath Yoga Centre and KPJAYI?
Sharath Yoga Centre requires 2 months prior authorized teacher training and focuses on intermediate/advanced students. KPJAYI accepts beginners and has less stringent prerequisites but charges 30,000 first month.
Can I extend my stay beyond 2 months at Sharath Yoga Centre?
No extensions permitted. You must leave after 2 months and can reapply for future visits. This policy ensures fair access for the global community of dedicated practitioners.
Last Updated: March 2025
Next Update: Post-season lineage developments