In this exclusive interview, we speak with Purna Sai, a passionate yoga teacher, wellness educator, and the visionary behind SSD Yoga Shala, Kalakshetra, and now Soul Fuel Yoga and Holistic Wellness in Kompally. His journey from leaving a high-paying MNC job to becoming one of Hyderabad’s most respected yoga professionals is both inspiring and deeply rooted in purpose.
In conversation with Purna Sai – Founder of SSD Yoga Shala, Kalakshetra & Soul Fuel Yoga
Q: Purna, what inspired you to choose yoga over a corporate career?
Purna Sai: I was working at a top MNC, earning around 8 LPA. On paper, life looked perfect. But inside, I felt disconnected. Yoga had always been my strength, and I realized that I wanted to live a life of purpose rather than just profit. So I made a bold decision—left the job, took the risk, and stepped fully into yoga. That shift changed everything.
Q: You’ve recently launched a new branch—can you tell us about it?
Purna: Absolutely. We recently launched Soul Fuel Yoga and Holistic Wellness in Kompally. This branch is built on the foundation of inner healing, holistic practices, and deep transformation. It’s not just a studio; it’s a space for people to discover their inner strength, balance, and joy.
Q: And you’ve also started a Yoga Teacher Training Course (YTTC) there?
Purna: Yes. Launching our own YTTC was a dream. Through this course, we’re helping passionate individuals become certified yoga instructors. The training is rooted in classical traditions, asanas, pranayama, philosophy, and teaching methods, while also covering anatomy and practical approaches. We’re building real teachers—not just certificate holders.
Q: What is the difference between SSD Yoga Shala and Soul Fuel Yoga?
Purna: SSD Yoga Shala, located in Shapur Nagar, is performance- and discipline-oriented—we’ve trained state and district champions, conducted school programs, and led public events. Soul Fuel Yoga focuses on healing, restoration, and spiritual well-being. Both have the same yogic essence but are tailored to different needs.
Q: You’ve trained thousands and led massive yoga events. How do you manage such scale?
Purna: With intention and a clear mission. Whether it’s teaching school kids, corporate leaders, or leading the yoga protocol in front of 60,000 people at LB Stadium, I stay rooted in service. I also have a strong, supportive team and we all share a common vision—to bring transformation to every individual who walks through our doors.
Q: You’re known for preparing medal-winning students in yoga competitions. What’s your approach?
Purna: Consistency and care. We focus on alignment, breath, awareness, and discipline. I give personal attention to each student, helping them not just win medals but grow as human beings. My students have won at district and state levels, and we’ve represented Telangana in events like Khelo India.
Q: What’s your dream for the future of your yoga journey?
Purna: I want to continue spreading yoga in different corners of the state, start community outreach programs, and offer genuine teacher training opportunities. I believe in building yoga spaces that are accessible, authentic, and rooted in Indian tradition. I also want to introduce wellness therapies like cupping, acupuncture, and pranic healing in our spaces.
Q: Finally, what’s your message for people who feel stuck between passion and profession?
Purna: You can choose both. Passion becomes profession when you align your life with your truth. I left a well-paying job to pursue something uncertain, but my heart was full. Today, I wake up every day doing what I love—and helping others do the same. Take the first step. Trust your inner voice.
From a stable corporate career to becoming a teacher, healer, and guide for thousands, Purna Saj’s journey is a glowing example of following one’s true dharma. With SSD Yoga Shala and Soul Fuel Yoga, he continues to build a legacy of purpose, rooted in service and strength.
“I left a top MNC job not because I was lost—but because I found something worth living for. Yoga gave me my voice, my clarity, and my way of giving back.” – Purna Sai
Also read: Pride of Hyderabad Hideathon: Telangana Launches Startup Hunt with ₹1 Lakh Prize
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