Are You in a Hurry to Die?

An encounter with Tirumalai Krishnamacharya, a Hatha Yogi par excellence.

- Harry Sequeira

It was nearly 35 years ago. I was a “novato” (beginner) in yoga, a student of The Yoga Institute, bubbling with enthusiasm for this new found science. I had great teachers - Shri Yogendraji, Mother Sitadevi, Dr. Jayadeva.

At that time, a ‘Friends of Yoga’ group started at The Yoga Institute. With their blessings and financing, I went on a search and find mission to find the authentic Yogis of India, for compilation of Yogis’ names and yoga centres.

After going around India, and meeting renowned Yogis, I went to Madras, and in a suburban bungalow, I met Yogi T. Krishnamacharya.

He received me graciously, and I explained to him my mission. He was nearing 70 at that time, but he was hale and hearty. He was dressed in a Dhoti, with a bare torso. He had sharp and penetrating eyes, and exuded energy. He was 5 foot 2 inches, but was a giant of Hatha Yoga. I felt intense and positive vibrations from this great Yogi.

After spending an hour with him, I asked him whether he could teach me Hatha Yoga. “Come next year”, he said, to which I foolishly replied, “Will there be time?” He caught the thought behind my words, and asked me, “Well, are you in a hurry to die?” He floored me with his reply.