Sharath Jois Obituary-Death News; Virginia, US, Celebrated Yoga Guru Who Taught Madonna And Gwyneth Paltrow Dies At Age 53
Sharath Jois, a celebrated yoga guru and the grandson of legendary teacher K. Pattabhi Jois, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 53, leaving behind a legacy that spanned continents and impacted countless lives.
Jois was widely regarded as one of the foremost authorities on Ashtanga yoga, a dynamic and physically demanding style developed by his grandfather in the mid-20th century. Following his grandfather’s death in 2009, Sharath took the helm of the K. Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute in Mysore, India, where he continued to teach students from around the globe.
Over the years, Sharath Jois became a household name, not only in the yoga community but also among a host of high-profile celebrity students. Icons like Madonna, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Sting sought his guidance, drawn to his deep knowledge of yoga and his disciplined, yet approachable teaching style.
Jois, known for his humility, often described his famous students as just like any other, emphasizing their dedication to the practice. In a 2006 interview, Jois fondly recalled Madonna’s commitment to Ashtanga, noting that she had transformed her lifestyle, abandoning junk food and embracing healthier habits.
Born in Mysore, India, Jois began his yoga practice at the age of seven under the watchful eye of his grandfather. After years of dedication, Sharath turned down a career in electrical engineering to devote himself entirely to yoga.
His commitment to the practice, both as a student and teacher, inspired thousands, making him a central figure in the Ashtanga yoga movement worldwide. His untimely passing has left a profound void, but his teachings will continue to inspire future generations of yoga practitioners around the world. Tributes have poured in from across the globe, with many expressing shock and sadness at the loss of such a revered figure.