The RA MA Institute announced that Guru Jagat, Kundalini yoga studio founder, passed away in Los Angeles after unexpectedly suffering a pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in her lung) related to complications from ankle surgery.
Guru Jagat, whose name in Sanskrit means “bringer of light to the universe,” was a driving force in bringing the practice of Kundalini yoga around the world. She opened the first location of the RA MA Institute for Applied Yogic Science and Technology in Venice Beach, California, and became a mentor to students and celebrities (like Kate Hudson and Alicia Keys) alike. The ancient yoga practice, which was first introduced by Yogi Bhajan in the 70s, focuses on breathwork, movement, chanting, meditations, and asana (postures) to bring energy through your seven chakras.
In addition to expanding her studio to New York and Spain, she wrote Invincible Living: The Power of Yoga, the Energy of Breath, and Other Tools for a Radiant Life, and ventured into fashion with the Guru Jagat Collection — a sustainable clothing line that’s handmade by women in California. There are also over 150 episodes of her podcast, Reality Riffing with Guru Jagat, where she featured scientists, mystics, women’s health experts, activists, and more for thoughtful conversations.
To honor the departed and help guide her soul, the RA MA institute is encouraging followers to join in the chanting Akal (sometimes spelled Akaal), a beautiful tradition that’s done for 17 days after the person’s death. For those who are looking for consolation from the loss of their mentor and guide, you can find solace in Guru Jagat’s last words she posted on her Instagram before her passing: “Hold each other tight, be massively kind, practice presence and humor as this life is precious and oh so delicate.”
