Newcombe/Yoga in Britain, 1. The Literary Elite

This chapter provides the reader with an understanding of what kind of information on yoga was available in the early twentieth century, how it might be found, and who was responsible for its content. Significant forums for information circulating about yoga included journals of those who shared interests in alternative spiritualties, as well as book-length volumes translating ‘Eastern’ religious texts. Perhaps the most influential network in this subject area had at its centre Watkins Bookshop on Charring Cross Road, which served as a hub for all kinds of networking, including consultation on publishing decisions. The process of publishing popular books on yoga is explored as well as the personal influence of Gerald Yorke, Paul Brunton and Hari Prasad Shastri of the Shanti Sadan.