Nembutsu Centre is a Charitable Trust based in Mumbai, India.  I, Behram Ghista, am the Founder, Chairman and Managing Trustee of the same.    I am also the sole yoga and meditation teacher in this organization.

"Nembutsu" is a Japanese name and stands for "A constant remembrance of the Buddha."  That is to say, we don’t let the dazzling heights we aspire towards, scare us from getting started, because we understand that we are all meant for greater things; that we can all be the longed for difference, making a qualitative difference, in this longing world. 

My primary objective in offering talks, workshops and retreats, in India and abroad, is to inspire the "ordinary" person to live in an extraordinary manner, by striding boldly and wisely, on the road best travelled to a flourishing life for oneself and others.

As I do not believe in the “chalk and talk” method of teaching, I encourage my students to bring out their wisdom through skillful questioning and deep reflection on what is being taught to them.   The students have the liberty to ask questions freely in order to clarify the new concepts being offered to them, which may be diametrically opposite to what they have believed in so far.  This allows for open dialogue and interaction, not only between the teacher and the taught, but also between all the participants present, which I believe, is an essential prerequisite for true growth and learning.

Riveting discourses, hatha yoga, meditation, poetry, drawing, clay-work, chanting, relationship skills, and a profusion of stories, plus real life examples are offered during the retreats.  This enables the students to absorb the teachings on a cellular level, bringing them closer to a mystical experience; the magnificent fruit of right practice. 

I thank all the students who have experienced qualitative transformations in their lives ~ in tiny or large measure ~ by living in accordance with the realization that we all exist as an intrinsic part of an indivisible whole, and that each and every aspect of life merits our deepest love and respect.

What makes my teachings so special and effective? 

Well, like mountain climbing, the process of awakening is based on tough and taxing challenges. But these demanding tasks are exhilarating, precisely because of their difficulties, and rewarding, because of the deep fulfillment they yield, when we surmount the ordeals, one step at a time.

To ensure a "safe passage" for my students, I offer them a long-term friendship, support and encouragement to step forward and take their true place in this world.   Also, the content of what I share is practical and readily understood, and, therefore, easily applicable at home or at work.

During the retreats, I ensure a nurturing, supportive, and healing environment in which small groups of students receive personal attention and counseling, making them feel safe and comfortable to open their hearts and minds, to high aspirations and brilliant lives.  This transformative space facilitates a deep bonding, not only between the students and me, but also among themselves. 

I also stay in touch via e-mail with my students, who live in distant lands to keep their lives and commitment pointed in the direction of their deepest desires.

Along with the fun and revelations that permeate the talks, workshops and retreats, my teaching style is simple, straightforward, light and humorous with a steady focus on the power of the individual to shape his or her life into a masterpiece.  Hence, the students listen with great interest and attention, because what they hear rings true. They are comforted and inspired with the clear and concise words that simultaneously impart knowledge and entertain them.  They are reminded of the eternal values that fortify their body, mind and spirit, as they seek clarity and coherence in a rapidly changing ~ and often confusing ~ world.

There is an undisputed acknowledgment by my students that the teachings being offered to them are excellent for the long haul; that the underlying principles are brilliant for all seasons, all ages, and for all those who wish to play an empowering role in making this world a better place.  

It is this clear, stirring message that make people come back for more, year after year, in their quest for inner and outer artistry.