The teaching of B. K. S. Iyengar in the context of dialogue between the East and the West

Abstract

The object of this research is the cultural dialogue between the East and the West. The subject of this research is the methods and forms of conducting such dialogue in the works of the prominent figure, the founder of one of the modern yoga schools Bellur Krishnamachar Sundararaja Iyengar. The goal of this article lies in examination of the various aspects of interaction between B. K. S. Iyengar  and the representatives of Western culture at certain stages of his life. For achieving the set goal, the author establishes the conditions for conducting this dialogue, principles of effective interaction, and method for overcoming miscommunication of the parties. Hermeneutic analysis is carried out on the works of the world famous yoga teacher. The traditional text analysis, content analysis and comparative analysis are used for collecting the information on the topic. B. K. S. Iyengar is known first and foremost as the founder of one the yoga schools and popularizer of Hatha yoga. However, his social role is poorly studies, although deserves deliberate attention, considering the world trends for healthy life style, the integral part of which is yoga. The author aims to fill this gap and prove the uniqueness of Iyengar’s activity in the context of dialogue between the East and the West, as it encompasses all stages corresponding to different approaches towards conducing the cultural dialogue. The study reveals the contradictions in Iyengar's position on the relationship between the Western and Indian cultures, and indicates his contribution to the revival of the traditions of Ancient India.