The Story of Our Nataraja

In February 2016, just a few months before the very first World Yoga Festival, Ram and I were in India visiting my family. We were on our way to Kolkata Airport to fly back to London when, out of nowhere, a thought came into my mind.

I turned to Ram and said, "We need a large Nataraja for the festival."

The idea had appeared out of nowhere, but it felt completely right.

We asked our driver if he knew where we might find one. Without hesitation he smiled and said, "Yes, I know exactly where to take you." He turned the car around and drove us to a government-run handicraft shop staffed by visually impaired artisans and employees.

It was a beautiful shop, filled with exquisite craftsmanship and served by the kindest people. We explained that we were looking for a large Nataraja. The manager disappeared for a moment and then returned with an extraordinary brass Nataraja.

The moment we saw Him, we fell in love. We knew instantly that He belonged at the World Yoga Festival.

Then reality struck...

"How on earth are we going to get Him back to London?"

The statue was large and incredibly heavy. Suddenly, Ram had an idea. We asked our driver to bring out our biggest suitcase from the boot of the car. With a mixture of hope and excitement, we carefully opened it and measured.

He fitted perfectly.

What a moment of joy! We could hardly believe it. Our beloved Nataraja travelled all the way from Kolkata to London inside that suitcase.

Ten years have now passed, and every year He stands majestically on the Main Space stage at the World Yoga Festival, blessing the gathering with His timeless presence. Thousands of people have meditated, chanted, practised yoga, and found inspiration in His presence.

Looking back, it feels as though He chose His own journey to the festival. We were simply fortunate enough to bring Him home.

Om Namah Shivaya.