Teachers

Meet Our Teachers

Dr. Bandita Satapathy

Assistant Professor

Principal In-Charge

Dr. Bandita Satapathy

Assistant Professor

Dr. Bandita Satapathy is working as the Principal at G. S. College, Kaivalyadhama, Lonavala, apart from being engaged as a Research Officer in Philosophico-Literary Research Department at Kaivalyadhama.

After completing her M. A (Sanskrit) M. A (Yoga) M. Phil (Sanskrit) and Ph. D in Sanskrit, she is involved in doing research in the areas of Yoga. Dr. Bandita has undergone courses on Manuscriptology from Pune University and short-term Courses in Computational Linguistics from the Department of Linguistics, Deccan College Pune. She is an accomplished author with numerous research papers and research oriented books to her name.

She is an internationally acclaimed scholar and many students are conducting Ph. D research under her guidance. Her mentorship has nurtured the academic growth of aspiring scholars and researchers. She is a member of the Board of Studies of Kavikulaguru Kalidas Sanskrit University, Nagpur. Also, the Chairman of Examination Board of G. S. College, Kaivalyadhama and Chairman of Ph. D Centre Kaivalyadhama.

Dr. Praseeda Menon

Assistant Professor

Dr. Praseeda Menon

Assistant Professor

Dr. Praseeda Menon has been working with the Scientific Research Department, Kaivalyadhama Yoga Institute Lonavala, as a Research Officer in Psychology since 2013.

She is an Assistant Professor at the G. S. College of Yoga and Cultural Synthesis, Kaivalyadhama Yoga Institute, Lonavala; she is also a member of its Board of Studies and Board of Examination. She completed her PhD in Industrial Psychology from Savitribai Phule Pune University. Currently, she conducts collaborative scientific research on the efficacy of yogic practices on overall health and well-being. She is also an integral member of the Kaivalyadhama Ashram. She is very passionate about unearthing scientific treasures in Indian traditional systems and unravelling this timeless knowledge to the world.

Dr. Neeta Gade

Assistant Professor

Dr. Neeta Gade

Assistant Professor

Dr. Neeta Gade, Ph.D., did her graduation in Chemistry, in Pune University and BNMS (Naturopathy), has worked as Yoga Teacher and Naturo-therapist in Institute of Nature Cure and Yogic Science, Bhosari one year.

She has completed Diploma in Yoga Education (D.Y.Ed.) in 2001 in Kaivalyadhama Yoga Institute, Lonavala. She has completed Masters in Sanskrit, in 2008 from University of Pune and submitted (PhD in Meditation) in 2018. She has been working as Yoga Teacher, B.A. Yoga coordinator since 4 years in G. S. College, Kaivalyadhama. She is conducting lectures of Schools of Yoga and practical for B.A. Yogashastra.

Dr. Swati Pandey

Assistant Professor (Psychology)

Dr. Swati Pandey

Assistant Professor (Psychology)

Dr. Swati Pandey is an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Kaivalyadhama Yoga Institute, Lonavla, and a Counseling Psychologist with 8+ years of experience.

She holds a Doctorate in Psychology (California Southern University, USA), a PGDYED from Kaivalyadhama, and certifications in Mindfulness, Perinatal Counseling (NIMHANS), Autism Mentor Training, Art Therapy, and Child Psychology.

She specializes in CBT, MBCT, Art Therapy, and Autism Parent Training, providing counseling for individuals, couples, families, and children on concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationships, perinatal mental health, ASD, and ADHD. A member of TPA, BCPA, and IACP, she also leads workshops and training programs for students and interns, with a focus on mental health, child development, parenting, and mindfulness.

Dr. Sharadchandra Bhalekar

Assistant Professor

Dr. Sharadchandra Bhalekar

Assistant Professor

Dr. Sharadchandra Bhalekar is an Ayurvedacharya and has done his masters in counselling and Psychotherapy (M.S. con-psy). He is working as Asst. Professor at Gordhandas Seksaria College of Yoga & Cultural Synthesis, Kaivalyadhama, Lonavala.

Author of books, “Pranayama-mudra and meditation” and “Anatomy-Physiology of Yoga”,

Dr. Bhalekar has a unique blend of modern as well as traditional approaches to yoga in his teachings and writings. He has conducted workshops at National and International conferences.

Dr. Santosh Pandey

Assistant Professor

Dr. Santosh Pandey

Assistant Professor

Dr. Santosh Pandey is a revered authority in the fields of Naturopathy, Yoga Therapy, Acupressure & Acupuncture, with over 24 years of distinguished experience in healing sciences and holistic wellness.

His academic accomplishments include a Bachelor of Naturopathy and Yogic Sciences (B.N.Y.S), a Master Diploma in Yoga Therapy, and an MBA in Hospital Administration. A Reiki Grand Master (Level 12) and Advanced Pranic Healer, Dr. Pandey integrates ancient healing wisdom with modern therapeutic approaches, offering transformative care for the body, mind, and spirit.

Honored with the President’s National Award and a Gold Medal in Yoga and Naturopathy (2005), Dr. Pandey is recognized nationally for his excellence and contributions to wellness sciences.

With profound mastery in Yoga Therapy, Naturopathy, Wellness & Spa Treatments, and Advanced Acupressure, he has served in diverse roles across premier institutes—spanning administration, research, clinical consultation, and curriculum development.

A lifelong seeker and practitioner of Kundalini Yoga for over 35 years, Dr. Pandey has been teaching this sacred science for more than 25 years, guiding countless individuals on their path to inner awakening. His expertise in Chakra Meditation, Yoga Philosophy, and subtle energy anatomy makes him a sought-after mentor in spiritual and healing circles.

For the past two decades, Dr. Pandey has also been a pioneer in Music Therapy and Sound Healing, blending ancient sonic traditions with therapeutic sound frequencies for deep emotional and energetic healing. His approach to healing is rooted in harmony—balancing vibrational fields through instruments, voice, breath, and mindfulness.

He has presented his work at numerous national and international conferences, sharing insights on holistic health and integrative medicine, and continues to inspire a new generation of wellness practitioners.

Areas of Expertise:
Kundalini Yoga & Chakra Meditation
Naturopathy & Yoga Therapy,
Acupressure & Acupuncture (Basic & Advanced),
Reiki & Pranic Healing,
Music Therapy & Sound Healing,
Yoga Philosophy & Subtle Anatomy,
Wellness & Spa Program Development,
Hospital and Wellness Center Administration.

Dr. Santosh Pandey is more than a healer—he is a guide, teacher, and visionary in the holistic wellness space, harmonizing traditional wisdom with contemporary therapeutic science for the healing and upliftment of humanity.

Dr. Rajanish Sharma

Senior Yoga Teacher

Dr. Rajanish Sharma

Senior Yoga Teacher

Dr. Rajanish is working as a Senior Yoga Teacher. With a P.G.D.Y.Ed from Kaivalyadhama, he also holds an M.A. (Education), an M.Sc. (Yoga), and a Ph.D. He is specialised in the areas of Yoga Teaching and Training, lectures, motivational development, Personal growth and development, and Life Management techniques through Yoga with a teaching experience of P.G.D.Y.Ed, CCY, Advance Teacher Training Course, B.A. Yogashastra, the In-Service Course of KVS, JNV, Gov. teachers, and medical students.

Has taught at G. S. College (Kaivalyadhama) Lonavala, Jawahar Navodaya Vidhyalaya, Nawan Shahar Punjab, Kendriya Vidyalaya Lonavala, and Vidyavati Charitable Trust Kamshet Pune. Technical Manager, Yoga Head, and Lead Examiner of Personnel Certification Board of Indian Yoga Association for quality certification through the Yoga Certification Board (YCB), Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India. Conducted more than 700 examinations online and offline at various institutes and universities all over the world. A member of various national-level organisations/institutions such as the Member of Board of Studies at Ram Krishna Mission University, Belurmath, Hawara, W. B. Kaivalyadhama Lonavala, Judge of the Uttar Pradesh Yogasana Sports Association, and Life Member of Indian Yoga Association, New Delhi.

Shri. Sandeep Shaligram Wankhade

Senior Yoga Teacher

Shri. Sandeep Shaligram Wankhade

Senior Yoga Teacher

Shri. Sandeep Shaligram Wankhade, a distinguished Yoga Teacher and Therapist, has over 25 years of experience in teaching traditional, scientific, and therapeutic Yoga on national and international platforms. He holds a PG Diploma in Yoga Education (Kaivalyadhama), an M.A. in Yogashastra (KKSU), an M.Phil (SPPU), and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the Kaivalyadhama Research Centre. His dedicated service at Kaivalyadhama reflects his deep commitment to integrating Yoga education, therapy, and research.

Shri. Subhas Chandra Mandal

Yoga Teacher – Level II

Shri. Subhas Chandra Mandal

Yoga Teacher – Level II

Shri. Subhas Chandra Mandal is a dedicated yoga and physical education professional with over 6 years of teaching experience across institutions including Rajiv Gandhi University and Savitribai Phule Pune University. He holds a Master’s in Physical Education, a PG Diploma in Yoga Education from Kaivalyadhama, and is a certified Yoga Protocol Instructor (Level-1) by the Ministry of AYUSH. He is passionate about holistic wellness, sports education, and yoga pedagogy.

Ms. Ragini S Gupta

Yoga Teacher – I

Ms. Ragini S Gupta

Yoga Teacher – I

Ms. Ragini S Gupta's has joined as a Yoga Teacher & coordinator in Gordhandas Seksaria College of Yoga and Cultural Synthesis. Her dedication to the practice and teaching of yoga is evident through her extensive training and experience. Having engaged in both online and offline modes of teaching for five years after completing programs at prestigious institutions such as Bhartiya Vidya Bhawan New Delhi, MDNIY-New Delhi, and the Isha Foundation, she has demonstrated a commitment to spreading the benefits of yoga to others.

Her desire for deeper understanding and authenticity led her to pursue a Postgraduate Diploma in Yoga Therapy at Kaivalyadhama, indicating her dedication to enhancing her knowledge and skills in order to better serve those in need of healing through yoga. Ms. Gupta's ongoing journey of acquiring knowledge reflects her passion for continuous learning and personal growth, further solidifying her role.

Shri. Nikhil Bakre

Adjunct Faculty

Shri. Nikhil Bakre

Adjunct Faculty

B.A. ( संस्कृत विशारद), M.A. ( संस्कृत पारंगत) , B.Ed. (शिक्षा शास्त्री)

Specialisation in Sanskrit literature and Vedant philosophy as well as Vedic Karma.

Working as Sanskrit teacher in Kaivalyadhama's Kaivalya Vidya Niketan and as a guest lecturer in G.S. College of Yoga and Cultural synthesis.

Shri. Ramdas

Research Assistant

Shri. Ramdas

Research Assistant

Shri. Ramdas is Research Assistant at Philosophico Literary Research Department at Kaivalyadhama Institute. He is also currently engaged as a Yoga Teacher in G. S. College of Yoga and Cultural Synthesis for Practical classes and theory classes of Patanjali Yogasutra, Hathapradipika and Bhagawad Gita. He holds M.A. (Yoga Philosophy) and Post Graduate Diploma in Yoga Education from Kaivalyadhama. He lives as a Sadhak in Ashram Kutir and also engages in daily Puja and Havan at Swamiji's Kuti.

Consultant Faculties

Dr. R. S. Bhogal

Consultant

Dr. R. S. Bhogal

Consultant

Dr. R. S. Bhogal is Director of Research at Kaivalyadhama, Lonavala. He holds a Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Pune, with his research focusing on the fundamental scientific investigation of meditation. His pioneering study is the first to scientifically uncover the psycho-physiological basis of Shiva Samhita meditation.

With over thirty years of experience in research and teaching, Dr. Bhogal has also served as the Principal of the Yoga College at Kaivalyadhama. He is currently the Editor-in-Chief of Yoga Mimamsa, a peer-reviewed and indexed scientific journal published bi-annually by Kaivalyadhama.

An accomplished author, Dr. Bhogal has written several books which have been translated in many Indian & foreign languages.He has published numerous scientific papers and has received several national and international accolades for his contributions to Yoga Research. He has been honored with a prestigious Yoga Ratna Award in 2022.

Dr. Bhogal has traveled extensively across Asia, America, and Europe to promote the essence of classical meditation. Himself a Dhyana Sadhak since his childhood, and renowned as one of the most sought-after meditation experts, he remains passionately engaged in developing simpler, more accessible meditation techniques, based on traditional Yogic texts, for aspiring practitioner.

Shri. R. K. Bodhe

Consultant

Shri. R. K. Bodhe

Consultant

Shri. R. K. Bodhe is a M.A. (Philosophy & Sanskrit), M. Phil. (Philosophy) Worked as Research Officer, Philosophico-Literary Research Department, Kaivalyadhama, Lonavala, for 30 years. He is invited for delivering talks, workshops at several universities and institutions.

In his career of 30 years, Prof. Bodhe has authored several research papers in Traditional Yoga and co-authored several Volumes. Prof. Bodhe is also working as the Associate Editor of Yoga Mimamsa. His areas of interest include Yoga Philosophy, Applied aspects of Traditional Yoga, Value Education and Philosophical bases of esoteric sciences.

Meet our Guest Faculties

Shri. Sudhir Tiwari

Yoga Experts

Shri. Sudhir Tiwari

Yoga Experts

Shri. Sudhir Tiwariji received his primary and advanced Yogic and Ayurvedic training under the guidance of Swami Digambar ji, a disciple of Swami Kuvalayananda and his father Shri. Om Prakash Tiwari. Sudhir also learnt pranayama and Hathapradipika from his father.

Brought up at Kaivalyadhama Yoga Institute, Lonavala, India amidst rich traditional yogic heritage of Swami Madhavdasji Maharaj, Swami Kuvalyanandaji and Swami Digambarji, a tradition kept alive by his father and a well known Pranayama master, Dr. O. P. Tiwari. Sudhir’s calling came in early 2012 when his father expressed his desire for him to become an instrument to further the message of Swami Kuvalyananda and Swami Digambarji’s by spreading in theory and practice the fundamentals of undiluted yoga. So now he travels all around the world conducting workshops in theory and practice of Yoga as an experiential practice (Asana, Pranayama, Meditation, Chanting) and Ayurveda and with his familiarity of alternative western medicine he also correlates these disciplines. His Mantra, Breathe Positive, Breathe Yoga.

Dr. Ganesh Rao

Chief Advisor

Academics and Training

Dr. Ganesh Rao

Chief Advisor

Dr. N. Ganesh Rao is a highly acclaimed and inspiring name in the field of Yoga in India having conducted till date more than 19000 sessions of Yoga covering all its aspects, theoretical and practical. He has to his credit a Doctorate in Philosophy and is a Professor and Ph. D. Guide in Yoga and Philosophy.

His other qualifications include Master of Commerce (M.Com.), Master of Arts (M.A. in Philosophy), Diploma in Management Studies (D.M.S.), Diploma in Naturopathy (D.N.), Diploma in Yoga Education (D.Y. Ed)., Madhyama Yoga Siksha Certificate and Specialist Instructor in First Aid and Home Nursing.

Dr. Rao is an Advisor to and Member of Board of Studies of Kaivalyadhama, a Member of Board of Studies of Sri Sri University, Bubhaneshwar, a Visiting Faculty in K. J. Somaiya Institute, Mumbai University, Yoga alliance (USA) and ITM (for Western Philosophy). He has served as Secretary of Certification Committee and Technical Expert (Yoga) with QCI, a Member of Selection Panel with ICCR.

Swami Anubhavananda

Spiritual Master

Swami Anubhavananda

Spiritual Master

Swami Anubhavanandaji is a spiritual leader and the direct disciple of Swami Chinmayananda. A scholar in the field of Vedanta and a prolific speaker, Swamiji is revered for his lively discourses on the Bhagavad Gita, Upanishads, Srimad Bhagvatam, Patanjali Yoga Sutras, Panchadasi, Amrutanubhav, Vidyan Bhairav, Vedanta Bhupali, and the Tripura Rahasya. He is the author of many books related to the field of Vedanta and has produced over 2,000 hours worth of discourses for his audio cassettes sold world wide.

Swamiji is the founder of the Sat Bhavana Trust, whose logo reflects his approach to life: Be Happy or "Mauj Mein Raho.” Swamiji is known for his ability to communicate philosophically complex ideas in a simple and direct manner, he addresses his audience from the heart and transports them to an atmosphere of joy.

Swami Parmatmananda

Founder Acharya of

Arsha Vidya Mandir

Swami Parmatmananda

Founder Acharya of

Pujya Swami Parmatmananda Saraswati is a Senior disciple of Param Pujya Swami Dayananda Saraswati, who is an embodiment of knowledge and boundless compassion. Pujya Swami Parmatmanadaji, founder Acharya of Arsha Vidya Mandir, has fervour & commitment towards Vedic view and way of life. Pujya Swamiji’s personal life reflects simplicity and love for everyone.

Swamiji’s talks reveal clarity about the vision of Shashtras and deep understanding of modern life. His talks are enriched with systematic and rational but lucid presentations with relevant examples. His talks harmonizes his subtle appreciation of contemporary individual, social cultural, and political problems with profound knowledge of Vedanta. His discourses are very lively and one of a kind. Pujya Swamiji has deep sense of concern for the society which gets reflected in his works. Pujya Swamiji’s teaching activities are not confined to spiritual seekers only.

Administration Team

Shri. Sushil Raisoni

Asst. Manager Admin

Shri. Sushil Raisoni

Asst. Manager Admin

Shri. Sushil Raisoni is currently working with G. S. College of Yoga and Cultural Synthesis Kaivalyadhama and is managing college administrative work. He is a Commerce Graduate with 14 years of financial expertise.

His experience includes developing financial systems, establishing accounting functions, and business relationships. He is proficient in Excel, SAP, and MS Office and combines technical expertise with a strategic vision for achieving his goals.

Ms. Swati Deepak Asha Thombre

Asst. Executive Admin

Ms. Swati Deepak Asha Thombre

Asst. Executive Admin

Ms. Swati Deepak Asha Thombre is currently working as an Office Assistant at Kaivalyadhama with a focus on administration at G. S. College of Yoga and Cultural Synthesis.

Her academic background includes an MBA in Human Resources and a BBA degree with specialization in HR. She comes with a rich experience of 4 years in recruitment and hiring processes and now gives her best to the administrative work at G. S. College of Yoga and Cultural Synthesis.

Shri. Banvarilal

Yoga Teacher - I & Boys Warden

Shri. Banvarilal

Yoga Teacher - I & Boys Warden

Shri. Banvarilal working as Boys Warden at Gordhandas Seksaria College of Yoga and Cultural Synthesis at Kaivalyadhama. He oversees Hostel Operations & ensures welfare for boy students.

In addition, he is also working as a Yoga Teacher in Health care Center at Kaivalyadhama, Lonavala. He has done his CCY and PGDYEd from Kaivalyadhama, Lonavala. He has been serving with Kaivalyadhama since 2017 and has experience in teaching Yoga.

Ms. Vandana Sandeep Borle

Yoga Teacher- II & Girls’ Warden

Ms. Vandana Sandeep Borle

Yoga Teacher- II & Girls’ Warden

Ms. Vandana Borle serves as a Yoga Teacher-II and Girls’ Warden at G. S. College of Yoga, where she oversees hostel operations and ensures the welfare and discipline of female students. She holds an M.A. in History, B.Ed. in Hindi, PG Diploma and M.A. in Yoga, and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Yoga from Bhopal.

Ms. Vrushali Datta Gosavi

Academic Counsellor

Ms. Vrushali Datta Gosavi

Academic Counsellor

Ms. Vrushali Datta Gosavi is currently serving as an Academic Counsellor at Kaivalyadhama College. She holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration (HR) and previously worked as a Sr. Executive – HR at Kaivalyadhama. She also completed the CCY Certificate Course in Yoga from Kaivalyadham in 2016.

Meet Our Teachers

Dr. Bandita Satapathy

Dr. Praseeda Menon

Dr. Neeta Gade

Dr. Swati Pandey

Dr. Sharadchandra Bhalekar

Dr. Santosh Pandey

Dr. Rajanish Sharma

Shri. Sandeep Shaligram Wankhade

Shri. Subhas Chandra Mandal

Ms. Ragini S Gupta

Shri. Nikhil Bakre

Shri. Ramdas

Consultant Faculties

Dr. R. S. Bhogal

Shri. R. K. Bodhe

Meet our Guest Faculties

Shri. Sudhir Tiwari

Dr. Ganesh Rao

Swami Anubhavananda

Swami Parmatmananda

Administration Team

Shri. Sushil Raisoni

Ms. Swati Deepak Asha Thombre

Shri. Banvarilal

Ms. Vandana Sandeep Borle

Ms. Vrushali Datta Gosavi

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