If you can see past the breeze blocks and timber you may recognise the room below as our much-loved Studio 1. It was 14th May, 1994 and the official celebration of our new, purpose-built studios, ten years after the inauguration of the Institute at the Maida Vale site. The old building, which had served as a makeshift home for Iyengar yoga in London, was taken down and replaced by the unique and beautiful Institute we enjoy today.

These images from our archive show the official opening event which included a traditional puja ceremony in honour of Patanjali. The event was attended by His Excellency the High Commissioner of India Dr L. M. Singhvi and of course by Guruji who was accompanied by Manouso Manos.

Read BKS Iyengar’s speech from the opening of the finished building here >