Namaste Radhika ji. What are the qualities one looks for when searching for a yoga guru? Should one join a group class, or do private classes. How does one know the teacher has sound knowledge, since I don't know yoga but I don't wnt to be taught by a not-so qualified teacher?

Ans: Namaste!
First & foremost has to be your intention. What is that you wish to learn and why is it that you wish to learn. Yoga is much bigger for you to connect it with any teacher. Try different teachers for you to resonate with, but mostly it is about your own abhyasa or practice. A good teacher will definitely be instrumental in teaching you the correct techniques in an asana, but in the end it is our practice that can help you take your intention further. Remember that the benefits of Practicing Yogasanas on the physical body are only a side effect, the real deal is the mental peace that you get which in the long run will elevate you.