Philosophy Class Testimonials

I have been a student of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras for many years. In fact, this is not my first time studying the Yoga Sutras with Dr. Neel Kulkarni. However, this is my first time experiencing their presentation via Neel’s restructuring in his book, Patanjali Code.  This more systematic presentation of the Sutras with some minor but highly valuable additions provides a more clear understanding for the student.

Most study courses of Patanjali’s Yoga Darshan only walk you through the first two chapters. I believe this is due to a lack of understanding of Sanskrit and how it fits into the greater Indian philosophical tradition.  Neel is both a scholar and a practitioner with a thorough understanding of both the Sanskrit language and Indian philosophy. 

I am now continuing my studies with Neel via the Samkhya Karika. I am excited to see what’s to come!

Wes Linch

It was a privilege to have discovered & studied under Dr Neel, who can be easily without exaggeration can be referred to as modern day Patanjali for his monumental work, ‘The Patanjali Code.’

He explained the intricacies, gaps & flow of Yoga Sutras in a way one can coherently understand thereby appreciate the enormity & need of undersea guided study of a complex text, the Yoga Sutras.

Highly recommended 🙏🏼

Warm regards 

Krishna

Founder

Sanjay Mansukhani, Kolkata, India

Dear Neel Sir,

In India it is often said when the student is ready, the teacher appears. In my case it turned out to be 100% true.

On International Day of Yoga I had sent out a post on Patanjali yoga on facebook to which you responded out of nowhere in a very detailed  manner pointing out a few corrections I need to do in my understanding. I initially debated with you but eventually understood the vast knowledge you had on the subject and your very authentic interpretation of the yoga sutras highly impressed me. I was a keen student of yoga sutras and also a teacher for beginner students.

I am deeply indebted to you for sharing with me deep insights into Indian philosophy and mainly the Yoga sutras and Samkhya karikas. I have been blessed to have learnt the Patanjali code, Yoga Sutras and Samkhya Karikas over intense sessions in the last two years. Today these philosophies which are so ancient that good authentic knowledgeable teachers can be rarely found on our planet in these times. But you have been God sent for me. Thanks to you I live these two philosophies but I prefer the Samkhya more than yoga as it is so logical and structured like a modern day PhD thesis. 

Your teachings have transformed me at the core level of my existence, the 3 guna level. My understanding of Manas, Ahankara, Budhi, Mool Prakriti, Purush and other tattvas is so profound today all thanks to your wonderful explanations which I am sure were coming out of deep personal experience and immersion in the subject matter.

It is thanks to you and your blessings that I have been able to create a new meditation to clean out all stress and worries and even do away with the thoughts of the mind in no time. It is even possible now for me to teach how to switch on and off the mind based on the clarity and deep levels of insight present in your teaching.

I pray to Ishvara that you may continue your exemplary service to yoga students and teachers worldwide and spread the ancient authentic knowledge of our Rishis and Munis to the true seekers worldwide. 

I am looking forward to  study from you Hatha Pradipka in the days and months to come to further deepen and expand my knowledge.

I would recommend true seekers to take one to one learning from Neel Sir spread over a long period so the vast profound knowledge of Neel Sir can be imbibed and you can experience a paradigm shift in your thinking, living and being.

I have benefitted immensely. My whole thought processes have changed and now I can easily help others too to change their thought processes to achieve happiness, peace and freedom in life.

It is all an outcome of blessings of Neel Sir.

Naveen Jadhav, Mysore, India (Detailed Sankhyakarika Course)

Dear Neel Sir,

With gratitude thank you very much for your time and effort in teaching me Sankhyakarika which went over 8 months. You made me understand the scripture so easily by giving relevant examples and recapping the previously studied karikas.

In Sankhyakarika, I have learnt about

a) Different kinds of sufferings a person goes through.

b) Theory of creation.

c) Gunas (Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas).

d) Characteristics of Purusha and Prakruti.

e) 25 Elements of Sankhya.

f) Buddhi, its characteristics, form and functions.

g) Ego, its characteristics.

h) Meaning of Antahakarana and Bahyakarana, and their fields of action.

i) Subtle Body and its Composition.

j) Baudhika Sarga and Bhautika Sarga.

k) Bondage of Prakruti and how it gets liberated.

The above knowledge along with that of Patajali’s Yoga Sutras is helping me to know the Internal World better. This knowledge, in turn, has helped me to become more peaceful. Also, this knowledge has helped me to dive deeper into Meditation.

Once again, Neel Sir, thank you very much for teaching me Sankhyakarika and Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras.

Naveen 

Naveen Jadhav, Mysore, India (Detailed Patanjali Code Course)

I am really excited to learn Sankhya yoga from Neel Sir soon. Recently I have completed Patanjali code course from Neel Sir. It was a very long duration course on weekend only. 

Myself Naveen from Mysore, India.

I am practicing Meditation from past few years and my objective of joining the Patanjali yoga course is to get knowledge about consciousness and to go deeper in Meditation.

Neel Sir has arranged Patanjali Yoga Sutras in a very systematic way starting from Purpose of Patanjali yoga sutras to Kaivalya and I believe this order is very easy to Understand and to keep it in the Intellect.

I want to share the systematic arrangement of Patanjali Code of Neel’s Sir book over here:

1. Arambha Prakarana: Explained the purpose and for whom Patanjali yoga sutra is for.

2. Sankhya Prakarana: Knowledge of Self and Prakriti and its elements like Buddhi, Ahankar and Manas

3. Chitta Prakarana: How the outer object is known and how the Self is known.

4. Dukha Prakarana: Knowledge about Kleshas

5. Dukha Nivrutti: How to remove the sorrow.

6. Ashtanga Yoga: 8 Limbs of Yoga

7. Samadhi Vistara

8. Samprajnata Samadhi

9. Asamprajnata Samadhi

10. Kaivalya Prapti

I was Lucky to get the Knowledge of Patanjali Yoga Sutra from Neel Sir since he makes it very simplified with his Immense knowledge and Wisdom and also by providing the suitable examples and clarifying any doubts.

After this course I have prepared Do’s and Don’t’s , prepared question bank which I will be referring and trying to answer regularly in my own intellect which will put me into center and keep me in track.

Also I am Lucky that I am getting knowledge about Sankhya Karika from Neel Sir.

Thank You Neel Sir!!

Stefaia Cavallaro, Yoga Teacer, Italy

Along my journey in Yoga practice, I had the great opportunity to deepen its philosophical aspects thanks to the competent and patient guidance of my Teacher, Prof Neel Kulkarni. Among other things, he made a complex and profound philosophical text like Patanjali's Yoga Sutras accessible and easily understandable, reorganizing its original structure and adding exemplary sutras to make it less hermetic and more usable. I sincerely thank Prof Neel Kulkarni for this great contribution to humanity.

With great pride and joy, I later had the opportunity to translate the sutras and related commentaries of his Code of Patanjali from English into Italian.

In the course of translating both the original sutras and the commentaries and additional sutras, I have proceeded with the greatest possible caution, with more conservative than radical criteria, deliberately choosing a translation that was as literal as possible and closest to the meaning of the English language of departure. I have also tried to keep the structure present in the original passages as much as possible, trying only to render it as best as possible in the Italian language, in order to make reading fluid and understandable. When the Sanskrit terms were translated into English words that were difficult to translate into Italian, I helped myself with the etymology of the Sanskrit terms, looking for the best interpretation for the Italian language.

I have no illusions that I have overcome all difficulties; there are still some passages whose translation does not completely satisfy me. However, I hope that this small contribution of mine can lead to a further dissemination and understanding of the wisdom contained in this ancient and important text of great interest and value not only for Yoga practitioners but for anyone who wonders about the nature and meaning of human life .

Om Shanti!

Anshuman Tiwari - Hyderabad, India

The 10 day short course by Dr. Neel Kulkarni on Patanjali Yoga Sutras was really amazing. Neel Sir is very knowledgeable. He explains the concepts in a very lucid manner which is easy to understand. He also encourages the participants to ask questions and he answers and resolves any doubts. I am really amazed with his depth of knowledge.  It was a treat to learn about the Yoga sutras from Neel Sir. I will strongly recommend this course to any sincere seeker who wants to learn about Patanjali Yoga Sutras.

Regards, Anshuman Tiwari

Naveen - Mumbai, India

Good evening...

Patanjali yoga sutra 10 day course was excellent.  Sir's immensely knowledge and his way of explaining with relevant examples made me  to understand such a complex topic. Thank you Sir!

Regards,

Naveen

Rangan DasguptaI - Kolkata, India

I found immense value in Neel Sirs book Patanjali code - the dry sutras came to life in the 10 day course . I feel every seeker should read the PYS along with the book Patanjali code and also attend a course of 10 days with Dr. Neel Kulkarni

Sridhar Sampath: - Chennai, India

The Patanjali Yoga Sutra short course conducted by Adhiyoga Dr. Neel Kulkarni was very good! His knowledge of the subject is vast and he was able to explain the concepts very well. His mastery over Sanskrit as well as other Indian philosophical theories  makes him a teacher par excellence! He was able to provide concise summary of PYS, focusing on essentials and leaving out what he considers to be ancillary. Overall I would strongly recommend this program for beginners in the subject! My deeply felt gratitude to Dr. Kulkarni for an excellent program!!

Regards 

Sridhar Sampath

Nicole Capell - California 

I've recently completed my 200hr teacher training with Dr.Neel Kulkarni and could not be more pleased with the results. Having Neel as my teacher has strengthened my yoga practice as well as my mind. My Indian philosophy studies and understanding of the yoga sutras of Patanjali have been tremendously deepened thanks to Neel's way of sharing knowledge and his system of Adhiyoga. I've been chanting the yoga sutras and reading his book Yoga Sutras of Patanjali proper translation and chanting as well as Patanjali code Sutras Re-examined. Between the personal study with these tools and having lectures with Neel I've come to know more about yoga in the past year than I have in my previous ten years of study without him. To have him as my teacher is to have found a grand treasure and I am truly grateful. Resources and books I'd been studying for years were seen in a new light and my understanding of them excelled . 

Neel has also encouraged me to teach my practice to others. I was reluctant but Neel told me ,"No you will teach, you are a yoga teacher." and sure enough two weeks after completing my teacher training I received a job teaching the physical yoga practice at a yoga ashram. I even acquired my position without paying to register with Yoga Alliance. 

I've had a truly amazing experience during my yoga training with Neel and I recommend it to anyone who wants to learn traditional authentic yoga. Neel travels abroad to see his students and will do lectures online so where ever you may live Neel is dedicated to sharing yoga with you! 

Thank you Neel for being my teacher and my friend, you have enriched my life. Namaste 

Professor Nicole Thanks Neel!!!!! 

Melinda Moraes Latanowski - Yoga Teacher, UK 

Especialmente para usted que esta leyendo este testimonio, (English at the bottom) Si estas en la búsqueda de un Yoga Autentico, Neel Kulkarni es un increíble maestro 

para emprender este viaje Yoguico. 

Neel es Yoga por sí mismo, su vida esta dedicada al Yoga y la Filosofía Yoguica, por ello mi marido Stef y yo sinceramente apreciamos muchísimo su trabajo. 

Ya formada en Yoga y como maestra de Yoga y otras artes, emprendí el viaje de entrenar con Neel, todo comenzó cuando empecé a traducir el libro AdhiYoga al español. Fue un placer traducirlo, ya que mas allá de la traducción, todo lo que fui aprendiendo y recalcando en mi vida día a día fue muy valioso, hay cosas que ya sabemos pero necesitamos que nos recuerden, por ello pienso que siempre todos debemos continuar nutriéndonos con conocimiento, y Neel realmente tiene mucho conocimiento. 

Es increíble escucharlo cantar los Yoga Sutras de Patanjali, Mantras a Ganesha, etc, todos allí, en la punta de lengua, eso de por sí ya habla de su conocimiento sobre Yoga y la Filosofía de Yoga. Profundizando sobre el Baghavad Gita fue una experiencia muy enriquecedora, conocimiento que mas allá de escucharlo lo vas a ir incluyendo en tus clases. 

Me encanto dedicar parte de mi entrenamiento al Canto Yogico, “Chanting”, es mágico conectar con la esencia del OM y del idioma Sanscrito, esa conexión divina ancestral, y 

Neel es un excelente maestro para ello. Estoy enamorada de los mantras que he aprendido, son una conexión divina con mi esencia. 

Es difícil encontrar personas que dedican cada día de sus vidas al Yoga, y Neel es una de esas personas. 

Fue interesante porque viniendo de una cultura sudamericana, ciertos puntos de vista son diferentes, pero Neel se tomó el tiempo para escuchar lo que tenía a decir al respecto, y ahora llegando al fin de mi entrenamiento puedo decir que he aprendido mucho. No hay nada que sea blanco o negro en la vida, y siempre hay algo que aprender e incorporar a nuestras vidas. 

Gracias Neel de corazón por tu dedicación a mi entrenamiento. 

Gracias por bendecir nuestro espacio de Yoga www.integralharmony.co.uk 

Gracias por bendecir nuestro matrimonio con Stef. 

Gracias por AdhiYoga y toda tu dedicación al Yoga. 

Maravilloso (“Wonderful”) 

Om Paz, Paz, Paz... 

Maestra de Yoga Dance & Terapeuta Holistica, Melinda Moraes de Latanowski. 

-------------------- 

Especially for you who are reading this testimony, 

If you are looking for the Authentic Yoga, Neel Kulkarni is an incredible teacher to undertake this Yogic journey. 

Neel is Yoga himself as his life is dedicated to Yoga and Yoga Philosophy. Therefore, my husband Stef and myself sincerely appreciate his work very much. 

Already trained in Yoga and teacher of Yoga and several arts, I undertook the journey of training with Neel. It started when I began to translate the book AdhiYoga into Spanish. It was a pleasure to translate it, since beyond the translation, everything I was learning and emphasizing in my life, day by day, was very valuable. There are things that we already know, but we need to be reminded, so I think that we should always continue to nourish ourselves with knowledge, and Neel really has a lot of knowledge. 

It is incredible to hear him sing the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, Mantras to Ganesha, etc., all these at the tip of the tongue, that in itself already speaks of his knowledge about Yoga and Yoga Philosophy. Going deep into the Baghavad Gita was a very enriching experience, knowledge that, beyond listening, you will include in your classes. 

I loved to dedicate part of my training to the Chanting, it is magical to connect with the essence of the OM and the Sanskrit language, that ancestral divine connection, and Neel is an excellent teacher for it. I am in love with the mantras I have learned, they are a divine connection with my essence. 

It's hard to find people who dedicate their daily lives to Yoga, and Neel is one of those people. 

It was interesting because coming from South American culture, certain points of view are different, but Neel took the time to listen to what I had to say about itj. Now coming to the end of my training, I can say that I learned a lot. There is nothing that is black or white in life, and there is always something to learn and incorporate into our lives. 

Thank you Neel from the heart for your dedication to my training. 

Thank you for blessing our Yoga space www.integralharmony.co.uk Thank you for blessing my marriage to Stef.
Thank you for AdhiYoga and all your dedication to Yoga.
Blessings. 

Melinda Moraes of Latanowski
Yoga Teacher Dance & Holistic Therapist 

Nancy Anderson - Yoga Teacher in California 

Over the years, I have read many translations of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, constantly trying to deepen my understanding of the lessons. I have attended classes and workshops on the Sutras attempting to find ways I can apply them to my daily life. None of these seemed to resonate completely with me. There always seemed to be something missing, something I wasn’t quite understanding. 

Neel brought a whole new way of looking at the Sutras to the class. I gained a deeper understanding of the philosophy the Sutras come from. He presented a logical progression to the concepts in the Sutras, pulling similar topic ideas together from all four books. Neel gave me a much deeper and clear understanding of the subject ma!er. I am extremely grateful to have been able to learn from Neel. His vast knowledge of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras and his teachings have given me a different way to approach and think about the Yoga Sutras. 

Nancy Anderson, Yoga Instructor 

Julie White - RYT500 Yoga Teacher, California 

Over the past few years, I have tried to read through the Bhagavad Gita on my own. Through the stops and starts, I realized that I need to study the text with an experienced teacher. Neel led our class at the pace we needed, helped us decipher some of the concepts and taught us how to study the text on our own as well. We were able to read it on our own and come to class with questions. It was also very helpful to read the verses out loud in a group and discuss them one by one. 

I know that this isn’t something I will get over night, but I truly feel that the way he set us up will help me continue to figure out what the lessons in this historical text mean for me and my personal practice. I’d HIGHLY recommend studying any type of Indian and Yoga Philosophy with Neel. 

Jen Steadman - Senior Yoga Teacher, California 

There is a familiar adage that almost everyone has heard, “When the student is ready, the teacher will appear.” This is exactly how I feel about Dr. Neel Kulkarni. For years I had longed to study Yoga Philosophy with a teacher who speaks and understands Sanskrit and who is well versed in the ancient texts. Not only is Neel a Sanskrit scholar, his knowledge of India’s vast philosophical texts is exceptional. His teachings have given me a comprehensive overview of various ancient writings and a deeper, clearer understanding of texts that I was already familiar with. With his guidance, I am experiencing these sacred writings in a new light. He makes the material accessible and takes whatever time is necessary to answer all questions that arise. 

Neel, thank you for sharing your knowledge, your generosity of spirit, your devotion and enthusiasm for the teachings with me. I have found my time with you to be very fulfilling and relevant to my life. I look forward to continuing philosophy studies with you. 

Jenn Stedman
Certified Yoga Instructor and Lifelong Student 

Clayton Yoga Shala - California 

May 25, 2017 

Thank you Neel for our 2nd year of teacher training in the Shala! You’ve been a great asset to our community in teaching Authentic Yoga - something not too easily found these days. It has been my great pleasure to attend your workshops, read your books, listen to your lectures and chanting, and to learn the AdhiYoga system. Mostly I am happy to have such a bright and pure soul like yours to call my friend and teacher! I am so impressed with your knowledge and experience, and the way you present the ancient and esoteric information in such concise and clear manner. Your understanding of the philosophy and tradition of Yoga is astounding. I look forward to many years of work and friendship and learning together. 

Thank you, thank you for all you do - for all of us serious students of Yoga! 

Love & Peace,
Laura Mullin
Owner, Clayton Yoga Shala 

Julie White - 500 hour Teacher Trainee and Yoga Teacher in California 

First, I’d like to share that I am very grateful for all of my time spent with Dr. Neel Kulkarni. Whether it be in personal study, in the classroom or just sipping chai, I learn something new every time we are together. His wealth and breadth of knowledge comes from a lifetime of personal experience. 

When I approached Neel to take me on as a student, I knew that my training would be great. What I didn’t expect was such a personalized training - both in subject matter and time spent with him. He always takes the appropriate time to study a subject and make sure you have the tools you need to understand it. He has an innate ability to meet you where you are and take you on a personal journey with each subject you study. 

Beyond the usual subjects offered in teacher trainings, I had the opportunity to study more in-depth philosophy directly from the ancient texts, and the importance of chanting and meditation in my own practice and how (and when) to introduce those subjects to my students. He also offered a fresh (and sometimes very different) perspective on the more common lessons like teaching vinyasa, the use of props in the classroom and even the format for which we can teach. 

My view of yoga has been expanded and forever changed. What I valued most about my time with Neel was his view on the teachings. He was always inclusive of all of the trainings and lessons I have had in the past and was clear that he was offering me his knowledge. If you are looking for a teacher with a lifetime of wonderful knowledge, look no further! 

Thank you Neel! OM ShantiH 

Madhu Padma, Yoga Teacher and IT Management Professional, USA 

I got an opportunity to share a common dormitory with Neelj. One early morning, may be at 4 a.m., I heard him get up and sing of Divine Mother, I was instantly in tears. He has a beautiful voice and such a discipline in practice, he practices what he teaches. From then on, he has been my mentor, friend, teacher, I am so blessed to have him in my life. I ask for him for guidance on questions of life to Indian philosphy. He has such a beautiful smile and open heart, that you would love to have him around you always. Thanks a lot Neelji for spreading wise knowledge and love in this world. Humble bow and gratitude to you. 

Wes Linch, Senior Yoga Teacher, California 

I would like to offer my heartfelt appreciation for Neel's guidance and teaching of Yoga philosophy as well as it's ancillary sciences. What makes Neel's teaching so unique is his broader understanding of how Yoga fits into the greater picture of India's vast philosophical tradition. When studying a subject such as Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, one cannot isolate the teachings from subjects such as Samkhya and Sanskrit. Most modern day teachers do not have adequate understanding of these other subjects, therefore the presentation of Yoga darshana is lacking. This is where Neel truly shines as a 

teacher. He has a gift of unwrapping the teachings in a clear and precise manner, relating it back to the bigger picture, and then making it relevant and palatable for the modern day yogi. Thank you Neel! 

Wes Linch
Certified Yoga Instructor (925)705-3899 www.weslinchyoga.com 

Wes Linch 

Marison Fusion, Yoga Teacher, California 

Hello, 

You might be asking yourself “why” study yoga philosophy? Maybe I should just focus on the poses.....but for me combining the poses, Sanskrit, and philosophy, it brought depth into my practice. Studying the sutras will enhance your practice and you will see it grow. These "threads" (as sutra translates from Sanskrit) of wisdom offer guidelines for living a meaningful and purposeful life. 

If you have the opportunity to study The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali with Neel...do it! You will learn so much; Neel does a great job explaining each sutra in depth and clarifies any misunderstanding. The examination of yoga theory will open up a whole new world of perspective and understanding for your practice. I learned that exploring these sutras helps us grow as human beings. I encourage you to deepen your practice and begin this journey! 

Kindly,
Merry Soul
Teacher Training Student (Spring 2016) 

Marisol Fusion
Yoga Teacher, California 

Melinda Moraes, Yoga Teacher, Brazil / Paraguay 

Meeting Neel was truly a blessing. He is a blessed man with pure heart and with pure intention in all his teachings. He is always smiling and he will teach you how to smile and how to keep that smile upon your face, because finally we are here to transmit love and to be love. Only with a loving teacher we will be able to learn how to act and teach with a loving heart. Beyond this, he is a knowledge man, because love and wisdom come hand by hand. I'm grateful for his help with my singing/chanting and philosophy teachings. He will always try to understand what you want and what you can do with that, because a wish without the action is just a thought. He will try to find the best tool and way for your yoga learning process. 

Highly recommended, a wonderful teacher.
He is a nurturing father. :) Melinda Moraes. Brazil / Paraguay -- 

Melinda Moraes +595975601701 

Melinda Moares 

http://melarte.carbonmade.com/ 

Shanti Brancolini, Yoga Teacher, Italy 

I'm extremely thankful to got to know you, and have the opportunity to study with you...I raccomand all who are intrested in yoga to contact Neel for a profound understending of yoga Philosofy and practice! 

Shanti Brancolini 

Renée Tillston, Still and Moving Center, Honolulu, Hawai, U.S.A. 

Aloha Neal, 

We gained a lot from your visit. I particularly loved your insistence about clarity regarding WHY people are doing yoga: if we are trying for enlightenment, we are not going to get it by just doing asana practice. I also personally loved hearing you chant. 

Thank you again for your visit. I hope that you met and enjoyed Joss Jaffe. Namaste, 

Renee 

Thanks from Adelaide 

Good morning, BroNeel, I wish you will stay longer in Adelaide, there is still so much that I want to learn from you . Lots and lots of love. PS Btw I really like your posts on Facebook. 

Simona
Adelaide, Australia 

Shrikant Subnis, New Jersy, U.S.A. 

Neel - Enjoyed watching the yoga in perspective DVDs. They give a good overview of yoga philosophy. Thanks for sharing (you have in depth yoga knowledge) 

Shrikant Subnis, New Jersy, USA 8 May 2012 

Shrikant Subnis 

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, Fairfax, Virginia, U.S.A. 

Dear Mr. Neel Kulkarni: 

On behalf of all the members of OLLI, I want to express our appreciation of your generosity in teaching "Authentic Yoga" during our 2006 Winter Term session. 

The sole reason that OLLI has prospered and grown over its fifteen-year history is the success of our program. Yes, our members enjoy the congenial setting and the opportunity to make new friends, but they would not be here if it were not for the broad range of high quality courses offered. 

It always amazes me that we are able to put on a superior program when every single course is taught by a volunteer. Thank you for donating your time, energy and expertise. 

Charles Duggan, President 2/28/2006 

Charles Duggan
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute 

George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, Fall 2005 

Neel,
I would first like to say that I cannot make it to class tonight. Once again my academic deadlines are getting in the way of fitness and peace of mind. However: Your classes are exactly the kind of yoga I am looking for. I really appreciate the long periods of time that are spent on each pose. There is no rushing anything and that is the best way to really feel your body and let it tell you where you need work. I like that you are a wealth of knowledge about what real yoga is. It is important to me to know what the details of breathing are and if I am really doing something wrong or whether there is a median way of doing things. These next couple of weeks are really going to be tough but I would love to get a few private session before the end of the year. 

Todd Watkins 

Dear Neel, I thoroughly enjoyed your classes once again this Fall 2005 semester. I regret that I was unable to attend a few of them due to conflicts. Fridays would be a better day for me. I appreciated your incorporation of chanting into the class. I think I learn the most during the talks on healthy living or yoga at the beginning. I would like to continue studying yoga, do you offer any other classes on night or weekends? Thank you very much for you help. 

John Kocur, jkocur@gmu.edu 

Dear Neel,
My name is Eileen, I am one of the students for yoga class in GMU. I think I made right 

decision for taking yoga class and am lucky to be one of a students of you. You had given me first image of yoga, the philosophy, and spirit. I really enjoy doing it and wish to continue my yoga experience. 

Best Eileen 

This class has been very interesting and enjoyable. I would prefer a little more structure and repetition of same poses, and formations that are overall beneficial (all rounded). Thank you! 

Alaka Rastogi 

I enjoyed the class; Yoga even helped my neck treatment combined with my chiropractor adjustments. 

Hakan, hinag@gmu.edu 

I enjoyed the course and how relaxed Yoga makes me feel.It helped me reduce the stress. 

Sejal 

I enjoyed ending my Thursdays with a challenging yoga class. To begin each class, Neel asked each student if s/he had any questions or concerns, and tailored the class to meet special needs of individual students. I especially liked the fact that we spend several minutes with each pose, working at our own pace to achieve maximum personal benefits. Christy Rauch 

I would like you to know that I enjoy the class very much. We cover a variety of exercises and topics, and I feel like I have learned a great deal. I have only one request. When we learn a new exercise, can you please tell us its name and objective? I enjoy learning about yoga theory, as well. Thank you. 

Neha Shah 

Hi Neel! I liked the class at GMU on Thursdays. At first I only went because it's the most convenient time for me. But, even though it's not an advanced class, I always found that the class was challenging. I appreciate learning different approaches to poses that I had learned before. Since starting the teacher training I really like being able to see methods of teaching an all levels class. Will the class be the same time next semester? 

Dr. Sue Ann, Yoga Teacher Trainee 

George Mason University 

Allegra Gulino, Teacher Training 2004-5; RYT, Arlington, Virginia; and Yoga Teacher, American University, Washington D.C. 

Neel is a wonderful, gifted teacher with an unbelievable wealth of knowledge of classical yoga scripture and a familial lineage to back him up. I just ate up every moment of the training. He solidly demonstrated how and why his methodology and philosophy is superior. He has taken me out of my comfort zone and opened new doors for my thinking, praciticing and teaching yoga. At the same time he has made me feel absolutely safe to ask whatever questions I have and has an organic approach to addressing topics which I appreciated. All this and his lovely personality and welcoming attitude too. Neel is tip top! 

Allegra Gulino, RYT, Arlington, Virginia and Yoga Teacher at American University, Washtington, DC 

05/25/2005 

Allegra Gulino 

Frank Woolridge, Yoga and Meditation Teacher, Fairfax, Virginia 

Neel,
The Yoga Sutra classes you taught were truly wonderful! It's the first time I have had the opportunity to study from someone who thoroughly understands the Sutras. Although, your class has generated many topics in the Sutras that I want to study, there is one topic that I want to pursue first. You asked me if I knew about the mistakes in Buddhist philosophy --- which I did not. Can you suggest a reference or web site where I could learn more about this topic?
Namaste,
Frank 

05/19/2005 

Frank Woolridge 

Nilesh Jade, Yoga Teacher & Computer Engineer, Falls Church, Virginia - Teacher Trainee 

Authentic Yoga Teacher Training Feedback - The teacher training was conducted in a true spirit of Yoga.The structure of the training course was good, with a emphasis on a student maintaining the Log for the Home practice.There was also peer to peer review of the yoga classes as well as students conducting the same. The only requirement for teacher training is a strict discipline. 

02/27/2004 

Authentic Yoga sessions are not only good for Asanas(poses), but also have deep rooted philosophy in it. Anybody who wants to learn Yoga from Philosophical Indian perspective should definitely try Authentic Yoga. Since practising for a year, it helped me a lot, in knowing limitations and setting up expectations, thus helping to reduce mental stress. It definitely improved the health, reducing weight and keeing it under control without any major effort. 

- Nilesh Jade. 04/25/2003 

Nilesh Jade 

Julie Shaffer, Yoga Teacher, Burke, Virginia - Teacher Trainee 

Authentic Yoga Teacher Training Feedback - Excellent overall understanding of the philosophy and focus of Authentic Yoga. This course is a basic must for serious yoga students in order to comprehend the foundation of authentic "Indian" yogic lifestyle. It will benefit me throughout my life and in all my endeavors. Julie Shaffer 

02/06/2004 

Julie Shaffer 

Stephanie Shaefer, Yoga Teacher and Educationist, Alexandria, Virginia 

Namaste and Aloha to you Neel! 

Thank you for keeping me on your mailing list. Even though I have been asked to teach a class for adults in a private home I haven't done so yet but continue to offer Yoga on Monday afternoons from 3:06-4:00 P.M. for students at my Elementary School! Right now we have 28 mostly primary Yoga students (mostly Kindergarten to 3rd grade and two 5th grade students!) It is becoming more and more relaxing and we are very proud of them. Their favorite greeting to show respect to each other is "Nameste" with prayer position which means to us "The light and goodness and forgiveness in me respects and honors the light and goodness and forgiveness in you". Thank you for your wonderful class which has given me the tools to be able to share Yoga with these little ones! I hope to be able to take an advanced teaching class with you again sometime next year to improve my practice! 

Thank you again for all your work. With sincere aloha (it means "I wish you the breath of life") and Nameste, Stephanie
05/23/2006
Dear Neel - Thank you for thinking of me. I hope all is going well. I just wanted to let you know that I am honored to still be able to teach and Yoga class for primary aged children at the elementary school where I work as a school counselor. This semester we have 24 preschool (age 4) through 3rd graders in the class. At the beginning and end of the class we always greet each person with "Nameste" which to us means "the goodness and light and forgiveness in me respects and honors the goodness and light and forgiveness in you." We also remind each other that "each person is very special because they are the only one of them in the entire universe!," and that "we are all teachers and learners." One class I had to come late so one of our 3rd graders taught the class and did a great job! Thanks to the great training I received from you Neel I know that I have a lot to share with them! I still plan to take your advanced teachers class sometime in the future! Please keep me on your mailing list - God Bless You! Sincerely, Stephanie Shaefer 

12/09/2005 

Dear Neel - Congratulations on all the new class, center, etc. I hope to be able to attend in the near future. Just wanted to let you know that last year I was able to facilitate a yoga class at our school for elementary school children - we had 3 Kindergarteners, one 1st grader, one 2nd grader, two 3rd graders, and two 5th graders - we started out with many moments of relaxation and by the end of the semester the entire class was relaxing - their favorite thing to do was to offer "Nameste" at beginning and end of class to each person - we translated it as "the goodness and light of God in me, salutes and honors the goodness and light of God in you!" Oftentimes their teachers would ask these students to demonstrate and teach others in their classes about yoga - I hear that they oftentimes demonstrated the tree pose and told about Nameste and what it means! This yoga class will also be offered again as part of my counseling program at Barrett Elementary School in Arlington Virginia. Thank you Neel for helping me to have the courage to share what I have learned! Nameste to you! Sincerely, Stephanie 

08/27/2003 

As a graduate of Neel's Basic Authentic Yoga Teacher Training, I highly recommend any of Neel's classes on Yoga. He is an excellent teacher, concerned and supportive of each of his students. With his guidance, he helped me improve in so many ways. He also provides an important holistic approach supporting physical, mental, emotional and spiritual growth in his students as well as the opportunity to learn about and participate in the Indian cultural events at his Yoga Studio. Thank you Neel! 

10/27/2002 Stephanie Shaefer 

Hanna Mae Owens 

Hanna Mae Owens, Psychology Student, Virginia, U.S.A. 

Neel, Thank you so much for everything you have done to help me and teach me on this trip. I am very lucky to he able to learn from you. I am amazed by your knowledge and generosity. I look forward to learning from you in the future. 

January 2012 

Denny Grossman, Ecology Scientist, Vienna, Virginia, U.S.A. 

"Neel has continued to provide valuable guidance to my yoga practice over the past year. Neel is a unique teacher with comprehensive knowledge of yoga philosophy, tradition and practice. I am grateful for the opportunity to study with him." 

Namaste, Denny 01/07/2009 

I have been a yoga student with Neel over the past year. His breadth and depth of knowledge regarding the history and philosopy of yoga represent the generations
of dedicated practice in this family. I have benefited from general class instruction and individual training. My energy, strength, flexibility and overall health have significantly improved as a direct result from his intstructions. I am forturnate to have found this knowledgeable, helpful and friendly yoga teacher in Vienna. I strongly recommend Neel as a yoga teacher for any serious student. 

Denny Grossman February 2007 

Denny Grossman 

Bob and Joelle Rudney, Vienna, Virginia, USA 

"My wife and I have regularly attended Neel Kulkarni's yoga classes for the past two years. Neel is a phenomenal, dedicated teacher whose classes reflect his deep spirituality, commitment, and compassion. I have a disability, and Neel went to tremendous lengths to design exercises that would accommodate my disability and bring me maximum benefit from yoga. We miss him greatly and look forward to seeing him again next summer." 

12/29/2008 

Bob and Joelle Rudney 

Rajiv Sarin, IT Manager, Springfied, Virginia, USA 

"Saturday mornings with Neel ji this year have brought forth a singular aspect namely, do your part in life. Coming to terms with this dimension in one's day to day life has unfolded 

incalculable 'mahatva' for my career, my family interaction and my life compass. Also, this year, I have been remiss in not setting aside regular 'niyam' time for Patanjali Yogasutra chanting."
Sincerely, 

Rajiv Sarin 11/30/2007 

Neelji's Class: I continue to participate in Yoga Sutras of Patanjali class, and benefit from the wonderful gift of chanting in Sanskrit as well as Neelji's hospitality of garam chai. I encourage anyone interested in the subject area of stilling the mind to enroll in Neelji's class. As a student you may even be the beneficiary of his uncanny brand of humor! AUM. 

12/26/2006 

I am a student of Neel Kulkarni and started Patanjali Yogasutra study in the Fall of 2005. I consider myself fortunate to be learning the text from someone who has a solid grasp of Sanskrit and makes it appear as if it is his native language. Neel is deeply committed to chanting the sutrams and I am therefore the beneficiary of the oral tradition of learning as well. I must confess the clarity of the philosophy contained in the yogasutra text has not been entirely approachable in portions of the first pada; however, Neel has been both flexible and patient to go over the tenets as often required. The initiation to the philosophy of Patanjali Yogasutra has made me curious on the practitioner aspects of ‘chitta vritti nirodh.’ I feel fortunate to have been recommended to this class by my yoga teacher, Nanda Bondade. 

12/16/2005 

Rajiv Sarin 

Cécile Poyet, Virginia and California, USA 

"Neel has been my yoga instructor since 2007. He has taught me the most fundamental yoga concepts and practices. This has deeply changed my life – changes that will stay with me forever. Besides the most visible benefits related to better quality of sleep and healthier eating habits, I have seen myself becoming a calmer, more balanced, peaceful and satisfied person. Every day, I enjoy exploring my spirituality and divine nature further. These evolutions would not have been possible without Neel’s dedication, patience and teachings. I am very grateful to him for being my yoga instructor and to life for having made our paths cross. May every person on a spiritual path find such a helpful source of inspiration and universal love." 

24 December 2011 

Hi Neel, Thank you so much for offering me a special last yoga class. I am sorry I had to miss your class today and had not been able to say goodbye properly. However, I would like you to know that it does not change anything to the wonderful teaching you have been giving to me over the past months. Many things have been changing in my life in a very positive way since I started yoga classes with you. And I know I still have many things to learn, which is great. I feel very lucky I met you and Nancy. You are both very special people and you really became my "yoga family", as Nancy once said. I have been enjoying every time I have been sharing with you. Thank you very much again for offering me a yoga class tonight or tomorrow. I will not be able to make it, not only because I have to finish packing my stuff and have no car anymore, but also because I do not like goodbyes much :-) Take great care of you both of you. I will certainly give you news from California. 

Namaste, Cecile June 21, 2008 

Before starting yoga courses with Neel, I had been thinking for more than one year about doing yoga. I probably did not dare to try because I was aware that it could open things in me that would be over my control, like when I studied philosophy in college. 

Finally, after moving to Northern Virginia, and knowing that I would stay in the area for a little while, I though that I should really give a try. I had a look on Internet and found Neel’s website. I sent him an e-mail and, ten days later, had my first course of yoga. I liked it right away. At that time in my life, I was looking for a new approach about food, exercise, and mental balance. I read Neel’s book and understood right away that yoga could help me significantly. I also understood that everyone has to find his/her own approach. Yoga is something really personal and individual. 

This is the reason why Neel is doing a fantastic job. He is able to share with his students his own knowledge of yoga, to provide them guidelines and, ultimately, to help them find their own way. He is always willing to answer their questions: questions directly linked to practice, but also questions about the more global discipline that yoga is – life, death, sleep, emotions...while having a realistic and wide enough approach so everyone can find his/her own way. Philosophy lessons are, in that regard, a privileged time to exchange ideas and develop a wider understanding of yoga. I personally found many answers and formulated many questions while reading Neel’s book, Health and Yoga Aphorisms, of Saee Tech, The Authentic Yoga School with Commentary. 

I am currently traveling extensively for my job. I miss Neel’s courses but I was lucky enough to meet him at a calmer time in my life during which I built the ability to practice