YOGA, LOVE AND THE BEATLES ASHRAM

It's that time of the year again, to make the journey to the International Yoga Festival at the Parmarth Ashram at Rishikesh. An annual yoga event that brings the who's who of yoga to this mesmerizing city by the banks of the River Ganges. 

People from over 100 countries attend, to connect, to practice and experience a week long celebration of the ancient practice. It's an opportunity to meet and learn from the revered yogis and modern day philosophers and maybe transform and elevate one's own understanding of yoga and spirituality. 

Love

For us at Proyog it's business as usual, except that it's not. Months before we plan and discuss, mostly who will get the privilege of attending from the team, what workshops we will attend and what delicacies we will savour once there!

But the greatest excitement comes from meeting our dear Proyogis. Over the last 3 years we have built friendships that come straight from the heart. Digital brands rarely have the opportunity to meet the people who endorse them, to get to know them, to understand their vibe. At Rishikesh it's different, it's personal. 

Radhika and Meghan share a moment. Cecila loving the Bengal Mat. Priyanktha and Yasmine twinning in linen.

Sometimes we just hang out, sharing stories and ideas. For me, this is the experience that makes what we do worthwhile. It reminds me of why I left a cushy corporate job to do something that makes a difference to the world. 

The Beatles Ashram

Shooting with Fareena Farid at the Beatles Ashram.

The once busy training centre for Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the ashram today lies deserted, just a walk away from the festival. It's walls are covered with interesting art and graffiti. The overgrown vegetation adds to it's charm. It's a delight to walk around the 14 acres surrounded by jungles and explore the meditation pods and domes. You get transported to another time, when the ashram was swarming with yogis and of course, the Beatles.

A photographer's delight