In the lobby of The Hari Hong Kong hotel, nestled in Wan Chai, Hersha Harilela Chellaram embodies the kind of warm-heartedness and approachability that would make anyone feel at home. “Please help me with these poses; I am not used to this,” quips the yoga therapist self-deprecatingly as we begin our cover shoot, laughing as if sharing an inside joke with the universe.

As the CEO of YAMA Foundation, she believes in the power of yoga to transform lives. “I started doing yoga because I believe it’s for everybody. No specific body types are required,” she says, her eyes sparkling with passion for her craft. She aims to dismantle barriers in an industry often criticised for promoting exclusivity.

This scion of Hong Kong’s renowned Harilela family balances her prominent background with a refreshing sense of humility. The pressure of privilege hasn’t altered her charmingly down-to-earth nature; instead, it has amplified her commitment to meaningful non-profit work, proving that true success is not measured by wealth, but by impact.

Amid the merriment of our photo session, Harilela Chellaram stresses that there’s no shame in wearing a loose top and stretchy trousers; for her, comfort is key. “Shake what your mama gave you,” she chuckles, a mantra she champions both on and off the yoga mat.

Breath of Life

Reflecting on her childhood, she shares poignant memories that served as the foundations for her career. Yoga was not merely a form of exercise but a bond of togetherness. “I have very key memories as a young child of being with my father when he practised yoga,” she recalls. Her father, Michael Harilela, would sit in full lotus, exuding serenity while his daughter playfully attempted to mimic his poses.

This familial appreciation for yoga was complemented by her mother, Kamilla, a karma yoga devotee, who introduced Hersha to community service and the essence of selfless giving. “I remember my birthday parties being spent serving food to the needy rather than receiving gifts,” she shares, recounting moments that shaped her vision for inclusivity. The seeds of compassion were sown early, establishing a lifelong connection to yoga’s core principles of acceptance, grace and giving back.

From the very beginning of her journey as a yoga teacher, Harilela Chellaram recognised the importance of adaptability. After obtaining her yoga teacher certification in 2002, she found herself in New York City, eager to teach. One particular encounter sparked a transformative epiphany: “A woman walked in with a prosthetic leg. I was terrified and told her I wasn’t sure I could accommodate her needs. She confidently replied, ‘I know how to accommodate myself. Just watch and learn.’”

This moment crystallised the Hong Kong wellness pioneer’s realisation that yoga is about meeting individuals where they are. “It’s about putting a pose into the body that you have. Yoga should be accessible to everyone,” she asserts.

Challenging the Narrative

Returning home, she faced complications implementing this philosophy, especially in Hong Kong’s rigid societal framework where differences are often stifled. “I’ve taught everyone from infants with special needs to octogenarians recovering from strokes; each student brought unique challenges,” she says. Her mission is not just to impart yoga poses but also to nourish the body and soul through empathy and understanding. “People often equate children being noisy with bad behaviour, but that’s not always true,” she notes.

Her commitment to accessibility extends beyond the mat as she strives to create welcoming spaces irrespective of physical limitations. It is her ongoing aim to transform the perception of yoga as an elitist practice into a universally embraced philosophy.

To change this perception, she stresses the importance of diversifying the representation of yoga within the media. “We need to showcase different body types and challenge the narrative that yoga is only for the already flexible or fit,” she asserts. By showcasing real people of all shapes and abilities, the narrative can shift towards an all-encompassing message: yoga is for everyone.

Celebrating Individuality

In a world that often pressures individuals to conform, Harilela Chellaram advocates self-expression and individuality. “There’s no right or wrong way to practise yoga,” she emphasises, championing the beauty of imperfection. “Each person’s journey is unique, and we must embrace that.”

This ethos ripples through her work with the YAMA Foundation, which inspires countless individuals – especially those from marginalised backgrounds – to embrace their own journeys. Each day, she strives to cultivate a space where all bodies can feel comfortable, uplifted and accepted.

Founded in 2016 by Harilela and her husband, Shaman Chellaram, the foundation has blossomed, providing yoga, art and meditation to some of Hong Kong’s most vulnerable communities. “Our mission – making Yoga, Art and Meditation Accessible – has evolved over the years,” she shares enthusiastically. It has empowered those with disabilities, living in poverty and other underrepresented populations, showcasing the profound impact these practices can have on emotional and mental wellbeing.

Recognition for the foundation’s work has come in the form of prestigious awards, including being named the 2020 Accessible Yoga Organisation of the Year. “It was an honour and a huge motivation,” she reflects. Her drive to serve continues to shine brightly, even amid challenges, urging her forward to create lasting change.

Mindfulness in Motion

Cultivating mindfulness is a cornerstone of her philosophy. “Breath connects us to ourselves,” says the influential educator, reflecting her own daily practice of meditation and yoga. She believes in the power of presence, connecting mind and body to foster emotional regulation. By effectively integrating breathwork into her teachings, she helps foster a sense of calm and connection without judgment or preconceived notions.

 “Seeing children no longer having meltdowns during everyday outings due to breathing exercises is a testament to our work,” she adds, radiating excitement as she recounts the organisation’s growth. Through her dedication, the foundation has expanded to offer more than 100 classes a month, evidence of a thriving community embracing wellness.

She dreams of creating a dedicated wellness centre that prioritises accessibility, ensuring that everyone – from wheelchair users to caregivers – can partake in holistic practices. “We’re launching a purpose-built facility so the community can come together and feel welcomed,” she says, her eyes gleaming with hope.

As we contemplate the future, she shares her aspirations for the next five years – expanding YAMA and providing mentorship to aspiring yoga educators. “I want to empower the next generation to carry forward this mission of inclusivity,” she confides with enthusiasm.

Authenticity Over Achievement

Asked about her definition of success, she pauses thoughtfully before uttering: “To be courageous and authentic in everything you do, both personally and professionally.” She highlights the importance of letting go of perfectionism and embracing the ordinary. “If you can roll with the punches, it sets you up for less stress and more happiness,” she explains.

Even as a prominent figure in the community, Harilela Chellaram remains grounded and relatable. “Although I like to think I am a modern, independent Indian woman in a big world, I still need my mom by my side,” she laughs, her smile broadening. As a mother of two herself, she is quick to credit her own mother as both her stylist and cheerleader, reminding us all of the importance of familial support in navigating life’s challenges.

 “I cannot do this by myself, especially when dressing up and looking glamorous. It’s always mom to the rescue,” she concludes with a twinkle in her eye. Her laughter, commitment and compassion serve as a call to action, inviting all to embrace their authentic selves while gracefully moving through life’s challenges.

Interview, Text & Art Direction: Joseff Musa   Photographer: Jack Law   Videographer: Jack Fontanilla