Riding Into the New Year!

Dearest Sanga,

As we stand at the threshold of a new year—one that coincides with the auspicious Year of the Horse—I wish each of you the wisdom, vitality, and noble strength this magnificent being symbolises. The Horse is also a powerful link to our tradition, as Śrī Hayagrīva, the horse-headed incarnation of Lord Viṣṇu, is our Iṣṭadevatā. May the Horse’s fearless momentum inspire you to continue your journey of transformation, moving with grace and determination towards becoming the best version of yourselves.

A new year always invites reflection, but it also invites commitment. I encourage you to make a sincere pledge to self-care. Remember: self-care is not selfish. It is an expression of reverence for the life entrusted to you, and for the body and mind through which you serve others and fulfil your purpose. To nourish yourself—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—is to create the capacity to love, to give, and to stand firmly in truth. Let us release any guilt attached to tending to our own needs, and instead recognise self-care as a sacred responsibility.

Transformation, however, is rarely comfortable. For the resurrection of the spirit to occur, there must first be a crucifixion. This is, of course, a metaphor: we must be willing to let the ego die—along with the old patterns, attachments, and illusions it sustains. The ego’s lies and deceits, those habits that confine us and distort our perception, must be lovingly yet firmly relinquished. In their place, we are called to cultivate new patterns grounded in truth, wisdom, compassion, and clarity. This is the essence of Tapas, the disciplined effort spoken of in Yoga philosophy—the heat of conscious practice that purifies, strengthens, and ultimately liberates. May this new year bring you the strength and courage needed for this positive transformation, so you may realise your highest potential. And remember to stay close to God as you embark on this journey, so that you are gently and intimately guided.

Over the past four years, this process has unfolded vividly in my own life. Especially after the sacred fire rituals of Pañcasaḿskāra and Bharanyāsa, into which I was initiated by the current Parakḹasvāmi, His Holiness Śrī Abhinava Vāgīṣa Brahmatantra Svatantra Parakāla Svāmi Mahā Deśika, my path of inner transformation deepened profoundly. These rituals ignited not only symbolic flames, but also an inner fire of commitment and surrender. Again and again, I have been invited to face my patterns honestly, to allow what no longer serves to fall away, and to trust the guidance of grace even when the terrain felt uncertain.

It has not been easy. There have been moments of resistance, fatigue, and vulnerability. Yet, with a heart full of sincerity, I can say that it has been the most extraordinary journey—one of embracing faith, leaning into practice, and receiving blessings beyond anything I could have anticipated. Through this Tapas—this steady effort joined with trust—I have undoubtedly become a better version of myself in all aspects of life. The work continues, as it does for all of us, but now with deeper joy, humility, and confidence in the compassionate intelligence that sustains us.

In the spirit of renewal that the new year brings, I am delighted to share that we are unveiling our new logo, created collaboratively by me and our student, Eleonora Oscari. This symbol reminds us that we are firmly rooted in tradition, even as we continually transform to meet the realities of contemporary life. It speaks of continuity and change, heritage and creativity—just as our own inner journeys do.

As we ride forward into this Year of the Horse, may you be carried by courage, guided by wisdom, and softened by compassion—for yourself and for others. May your Tapas be steady, your self-care wholehearted, and your path illuminated by truth.

I close with profound gratitude to my grandfather and father, whose blessings accompany me always, and to the Parakḹasvāmi for showing me the way with patience and grace.

With warmest wishes and deep respect, Namaste!

Dr Kaustubha Desikachar, M.Sc, M.M.S & Ph.D

The Viniyoga Tradition

01 Jan 2026

PS: There is still time to join our new online immersions starting in 2026! So please go ahead and visit our website for more information!