Osho, born Chandra Mohan Jain and also known as Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, was a remarkably complex and controversial figure. He captivated audiences with his blend of Eastern mysticism and Western individualism, drawing in dedicated followers while simultaneously attracting widespread criticism. Here’s a deep dive into his life, beliefs, and the lasting impact of the spiritual master known as Osho:
Early Life and Influences
Osho was born in 1931 in the small village of Kuchwada, India. From a young age, he demonstrated a rebellious and inquisitive nature, questioning societal and religious norms. His early spiritual explorations were diverse. He studied various religious traditions, delved into ancient texts, and experimented with diverse meditation techniques. A notable influence in his life was his maternal grandparents, who provided him with a great deal of freedom and space to explore his inner world.
In 1953, at the age of 21, Osho claimed to have experienced a profound enlightenment, a pivotal moment in his journey from seeker to spiritual master. He completed his formal education, earning a master’s degree in philosophy, and took on a position teaching philosophy at the University of Jabalpur.
Spiritual Teacher and the Rise of the Rajneesh Movement
By the 1960s, Osho had left academia to dedicate himself fully to sharing his insights and philosophy. He developed a reputation as a charismatic and intellectually provocative speaker, challenging traditional religious beliefs. His approach emphasized individual experience and a rejection of dogma. Osho’s ideas embraced a non-judgmental exploration of human experience in all its facets.
In the 1970s, Osho established an ashram in Pune, India, attracting a growing following of seekers, who were called sannyasins, from around the globe. His followers often wore distinctive orange or maroon robes, and many renounced their old names and traditional social roles. Osho encouraged a unique blend of meditation, Eastern mysticism, therapy techniques, and an attitude he called “Zorba the Buddha” – a celebration of both the spiritual and the material aspects of life.
One of the defining aspects of Osho’s teachings was his emphasis on dynamic meditation, an active form of meditation involving movement, emotional expression, and ultimately, silent witnessing. He argued that Westerners, burdened by repressed emotions and anxieties, needed to first free themselves from these through cathartic activities rather than traditional practices of still contemplation.
Osho and his movement were not without controversy. Osho was known for his sharp critiques of traditional religions, social institutions, and political figures. Some found Osho’s focus on sexuality and his embrace of material wealth to be at odds with traditional spiritual ideas of renunciation. This criticism only intensified as he developed a reputation for luxurious living, amassing a fleet of Rolls-Royce cars, a symbol of both his success and the apparent contradictions inherent in his teachings.
Rajneeshpuram: Oregon and Conflict
By the 1980s, tensions between the Rajneeshees and the local community near their Pune ashram began to escalate. In 1981, Osho and his followers relocated to the United States, establishing a large commune in Oregon called Rajneeshpuram. This move was intended to create a self-sufficient community based on Osho’s principles.
However, conflict soon arose with neighboring residents and government officials over land-use regulations and Osho’s increasingly outlandish teachings. These tensions escalated dramatically, with allegations against the Rajneeshees of attempted murder and a large-scale bioterror attack. In 1985, Osho was arrested and deported from the United States on charges related to immigration fraud. Several top leaders in the commune were also convicted of serious crimes including conspiracy to commit murder.
Return to Pune and Legacy
Osho returned to India, re-establishing his ashram in Pune where he continued teaching until his death in 1990. The cause of his death was stated as heart failure, but some followers believe he was poisoned while under US custody.
Osho’s core philosophy rejected a singular, organized religion. His teachings were less about creating a structured belief system and more about providing tools for self-discovery and inner transformation. Here’s a breakdown of some key tenets Osho emphasized:
