Page 8 - Adhiyoga Purana

Foreword2: N. Ramanuja, Chairman, M.P. Birla Institute of Management
Yogacharya Sri Krishna defines yoga succinctly as “Yogah karmasu kaushalam” (योग: कमस& ु कौशलम ् |), translated as “Yoga is skill in action.” Drawn from the Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 2,
Verse 50), this teaching reminds us that true yoga lies in performing one’s duties with mindfulness, dedication, precision, and detachment from results. It points toward a balanced life where body, mind, and spirit rest in equanimity, peace, and joy. Yoga is not merely posture or Asana—it is a way of learning, connecting, and gently strengthening body and soul. This has been the objective of every true yoga teacher: to make daily life more peaceful for every practitioner.
In this latest book “Adhiyoga Purana’, written in the style of a Purana, we encounter the yogic journey of Dr. Neel Kulkarni—Adhiyogi from his childhood, as well as stories of his students from across the world. Through these stories, the author gives us an intimate glimpse into his work and his mission of making yoga accessible, relevant, and transformative for all.
As Dr. D. V. Gundappa has puts it beautifully, “Endowed with old roots and new sprouts, the tree looks beautiful.”, Dr. Kulkarni has honored the ancient tradition of Patanjali while adapting its practices with modern insights so they resonate with people of every continent. His approach goes beyond the physical routine: it is an education in yogic science. With clarity and creativity, he has designed a holistic system that balances mind, body, breath, and consciousness.
Like the story of Rishi Bhrigu and his father Varuna, a teacher only gives a platform—the student must build upon it. Dr. Kulkarni has extended this principle by blending the precision of Iyengar yoga with his own “Authentic Yoga System”. His vision has always extended far beyond asanas. Nutrition, biology, Sanskrit, Ayurveda, chanting, philosophy, psychology—all find a place in his method. Decades of self-research and personal discoveries shaped this unique system, which he has now shared with thousands worldwide.
The experiences of his students, from all continents, form the heart of this book. From U.S. Army officers to university coaches, from senior citizens to children, all have found meaning in his teaching. Yoga Alliance, after reviewing his deep background, honored him with their highest-level designation—recognition of a truly exceptional contribution. His reach has extended to schools, universities, government departments, churches, wellness centers, and more.
To recall some stories, students describe his classes as unhurried, deeply attentive, and transformational. Marilyn found healing for her back pain. Brian appreciated the emphasis on breathing and the depth of every posture. Monica saw in his teaching her first true image of yoga as philosophy and spirit. Gloria, a yoga teacher herself, valued his methodology and clarity of purpose. Others speak of stress relief, inner peace, weight loss, and, above all, the gift of mindful presence. For many, his classes became a sanctuary to seek peace and contentment in life.
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