Internationally acclaimed yoga guru Sharath Jois (53), grandson of the esteemed Mysuru-based yoga legend K. Pattabhi Jois, passed away in Virginia, USA, following a heart attack. Sharath, a prominent figure in Ashtanga Yoga, was based in the U.S., where he was widely recognized for teaching celebrities such as Madonna, Sting, and Gwyneth Paltrow.

Reports indicate that Sharath collapsed during a yoga session due to respiratory distress, leading to a cardiac arrest. He is survived by his mother, wife, son, and daughter. His wife and son are set to arrive in Virginia on Tuesday, and his body is expected to reach Mysuru on Friday, November 15, according to family sources.

Sharath Jois was born on September 29, 1971, to Saraswathi (daughter of K. Pattabhi Jois) and Ranga Swamy in Mysuru. Raised with a deep-rooted passion for yoga, he officially began his journey in the practice at the age of 19, dedicating himself to early morning sessions beginning at 3:30 a.m. Sharath not only carried forward his grandfather’s legacy in Ashtanga Yoga but also earned global recognition for his dedication to yoga instruction and practice. His contributions have inspired countless followers around the world.