In Memory of Bobby Clennell

25th May 2026

Certified to teach in 1977, Bobby Clennell was an Iyengar yoga teacher, author and illustrator whose work inspired students and teachers around the world. A devoted student of B.K.S. Iyengar and Geeta Iyengar for many decades, she first travelled to Pune in 1973 and returned to study more than thirty times throughout her life in continued study and practice. She became especially well known for her much-loved Pune Guide, which helped so many of us navigate our first journeys to Pune.

Originally from England and later based in New York, teaching at the New York Institute from 1994 and core faculty member, Bobby dedicated her life to the study and teaching of Iyengar Yoga. Through her classes, workshops, illustrations and books she helped make the practice accessible and engaging for countless practitioners internationally. Bobby was also widely recognised for her contribution to women’s yoga practice and education through her acclaimed books which included The Woman’s Yoga Book: Asana and Pranayama for All Phases of the Menstrual Cycle and Yoga for Breast Care: What Every Woman Needs to Know

Many within the Iyengar Yoga community in the UK and internationally will remember Bobby not only for her immense contribution to yoga, but also for her generosity of spirit, humour and vibrant presence. She touched many lives through her teaching, friendship, and creativity. Bobby’s passing will be deeply felt across the global Iyengar Yoga community. Earlier this year, Bobby spoke to the US Association, read her interview here, “Something Completely Trustworthy”: Bobby Clennell on Practice, Duty and a Life in Iyengar Yoga >

On behalf of Iyengar Yoga (UK), we extend our heartfelt condolences to Bobby’s family, friends, colleagues, and students.

With gratitude and respect,

Iyengar Yoga (UK)

On 25th May, 2026 the Teacher Student Invocation was chanted in honour of Bobby at the Iyengar Yoga UK Annual Convention

ॐ सह नाववतु । सह नौ भुनक्तु । सह वीर्यं करवावहै । तेजस्वि नावधीतमस्तु मा विद्विषावहै । ॐ शान्तिः शान्तिः शान्तिः ॥

Om saha nāvavatu saha nau bhunaktu saha vīryam karavāvahai tejasvi nāvadhītamastu ma vidveṣāvahai Om śānti śānti śāntiḥ

Translation: Om. May we, guru and disciple, be protected together. May we enjoy the fruits of our action together. May we achieve strength together. May our knowledge be full of light. May we never have enmity for one another. Om, peace, peace, peace.