The ninth edition of the Indian Yoga Association’s (IYA) monthly lecture series Manthan was held on September 7, 2025, at 6:00 PM IST in an online format, bringing together Yoga enthusiasts and practitioners from across the globe. The session, titled “Foundations of Yoga Philosophy,” was honored to welcome Shri Prashant S. Iyengar ji, son of the legendary Yogacharya BKS Iyengar and a recognized authority on Yoga, as the speaker.
Shri Prashant ji currently serves as the Director of the Ramāmani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute (RIMYI), Pune, and is widely respected for his profound knowledge of ancient scriptures and classical texts. Before dedicating his life fully to Yoga, he was an accomplished violinist and often integrates his musical sensibilities into his teaching, adding depth and harmony to the learning experience.
He shared profound insights into the essence of Yoga, tracing its historical roots, exploring its philosophical foundations, and highlighting the practical application of its principles in daily life. The lecture emphasized the universal relevance of Yoga, demonstrating how ancient wisdom continues to inspire, guide, and enrich modern living for individuals around the world.
Manthan, an initiative of the Indian Yoga Association, is a monthly lecture series designed to spark deep reflection and dialogue on Yoga’s enduring role in contemporary life. Each session encourages both Yoga professionals and seekers to integrate traditional knowledge with modern practices, fostering personal growth and collective consciousness.
Recognition and Global Reach of Yoga
Shri Prashant ji began by highlighting the global growth of yoga, emphasizing that yoga is spreading far and wide as a cultural and spiritual practice. Under the guidance of senior teachers and with divine blessings, the RIMYI has played a key role in disseminating authentic yoga knowledge globally. The institute was honored with the first-ever Prime Minister’s Award for outstanding contribution to the promotion of yoga during the International Yoga Decade. Through its programs, students worldwide have gained exposure to Chitta Vigyan (science of consciousness), Yoga, and Atmik Shastra (spiritual science).
He also expressed gratitude to the Indian Yoga Association and its founding members for their role in fostering yoga education and awareness globally.
The Philosophy and Essence of Yoga
Prashant ji emphasized that yoga is much more than physical postures. It is a holistic science encompassing the body, mind, and consciousness. True yoga practice develops higher faculties of awareness and consciousness, rather than just improving physical fitness.
Key clarifications included:
Pranayama: Often misunderstood as mere breath regulation, pranayama is actually the management and cultivation of prana, the universal life force. It harmonizes body, mind, and consciousness and should not be reduced to simple respiratory control.
Asanas: Physical postures are not exercises alone; they affect breathing patterns, body alignment, and mental states. The configuration of the body, gestures, and conscious breathing are integral to the practice.
Understanding the Body and Mind
Prashant ji illustrated the dynamic and chemical nature of the human body, which is constantly renewing itself. Organs, skin, hair, and bodily fluids are continually changing. Yoga cultivates awareness of these processes, enhancing both health and longevity.
He emphasized the marvels of the human body:
Every organ, from the heart to the kidneys, functions as an intricate system of filters and processes.
Food transforms into body and mind, unlike machines that rely on fuel; yoga allows us to understand and respect this transformative process.
Integrating Tradition with Modern Understanding
He encouraged students to study the history of yoga, emphasizing that contemporary practice must remain rooted in traditional knowledge. Whether yoga is pursued professionally, as a hobby, or informally, practitioners should:
- Understand its philosophical foundations.
- Appreciate the historical and cultural context.
- Avoid reducing yoga to a series of exercises or superficial wellness routines.
Pratyahara and Meditation
Shri Prashant ji elaborated on Pratyahara (sense withdrawal) as a critical yogic practice. Pratyahara involves turning the senses inward, beyond external stimuli, cultivating inner focus and higher awareness. Meditation, similarly, is not mere relaxation or concentration, but the development of higher faculties of the mind.
Yoga as a Universal Science
Yoga is not limited to seated or inverted postures. The human body can perform countless movements, and yoga can be integrated into all daily activities. What matters is the awareness and conscious intention behind every action.
He stressed the importance of preserving yoga’s authentic essence while sharing it globally:
Yoga should maintain its traditional roots.
It must be adaptable for students worldwide without losing its core philosophical principles.
Conclusion
Shri Prashant ji concluded by emphasizing that yoga is a comprehensive science of the body, mind, and consciousness. It fosters balance, clarity, and harmony, and has the potential to benefit the entire world. Practitioners must approach yoga with respect for its history, awareness of its deeper purpose, and dedication to its authentic principles.
The session provided participants with a profound understanding of yoga’s philosophy, practical guidance for practice, and inspiration to approach yoga as a holistic way of life.