Inner call of a Yogini

Now 26, Niharika started learning yoga at the tender age of 11. She does everything with passion — full-time yoga instructor and part-time model, Niharika Kamaleshwar is a bundle of talent. Also an MBA graduate and part of the family of young yoga instructors in the city, Niharika teaches Iyengar yoga at Orange Ray in Nungambakkam. While most youngsters pursue fat paychecks, Niharika sets a perfect example of how one can turn one’s passion into a career.

“I learnt the basic asanas when I was young. Later, I lost touch with yoga. So, wanting to be more active, I enrolled in a gym and I hated it. Then, I joined a yoga studio and suddenly realised what a joy it was. I have trained in the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Ashram in Madurai, and under Fharzana Siraj, to be teacher. I didn’t really plan to make yoga my profession — it just happened,” states Niharika. As a person who likes to try doing different things in life, Niharika will never let go of the art form — “Come what may, yoga is the fundamental thing in my life. The reason for who I am now, is yoga.”

When quizzed about the umpteen number of fitness activities happening in the city, she says, “Fitness fads come and go. A person should do whatever suits him or her — as long as it is enjoyable. Some people love to do Zumba, and some love to hit the gym. But yoga is not just about fitness alone. It will make you calm, focused and gives inner peace. It is like an ocean,” Niharika says with a smile. She also stresses the importance of being healthy in today’s lifestyle — “People are more self conscious these days and it is definitely a good sign. Practice mindful eating and try to fit in some kind of exercise five-days at least for half an hour.”

As Niharika is passionate about fitness, it makes her a perfect candidate for modelling. “After a lot of convincing, I shot for catalogues and creative print ads for a few of my designer friends. My latest assignment was for a fitness campaign for an active wear brand. So, whenever something interesting comes up, I take it,” she concludes.