At 74, retired teacher writes 55 books, teaches free yoga to build healthier society

What does a 74-year-old do after retirement? If you’re S Sampath Kumar, you write 55 books, teach yoga for free and devote your time to building a healthier society.

Since retiring in 2010, Sampath, a former physical education teacher, karate instructor and yoga master, has intensified his efforts to promote health and wellness through free coaching and writing.

He has authored 55 books on health, yoga, meditation and martial arts and hopes to take the tally to 100. His works cover yoga asanas, meditation techniques, fitness and traditional martial arts. With knowledge of around 500 asanas, including Pavana Yoga which includes floating on water, he plans to document them in another book.

Beyond writing, Sampath offers free yoga coaching and guides people dealing with ailments such as spondylitis and back pain. His classes also emphasise teamwork, strength, discipline and physical and mental well-being.

He has also written three research monographs on dialects in Telangana, documenting the region’s distinctive words and expressions.

Among his notable works are Dhyanam Lothullo, Telangana Pada Vaibhavam, Arogya Yoga, Telangana Palle Parimalam and Karate Nerchukundam.

“My intention is to distribute knowledge among people, help them stay healthy and ultimately build a healthy society,” Sampath said.