The Charismatic Guru Who Redefined Spirituality
Osho—a name that sparks curiosity, admiration, and debate. Known for his profound spiritual discourses, unconventional lifestyle – and controversies, Osho’s teachings continue to inspire readers worldwide. But who is Osho, and why are his books perennial bestsellers in India and globally? This article unpacks his life, philosophy, controversies, and why his works are a staple for those seeking deeper insights into life, love, and spirituality.
Early life
Born Rajneesh Chandra Mohan Jain on 11 December 1931 in a small village called Kuchwada in Madhya Pradesh, Osho was the eldest of eleven siblings. Born to a modest Jain family, his parents, Babulal and Saraswati Jain, were cloth merchants, and his childhood was steeped in a simple, rural environment.
He was sent to live with his maternal grandparents at a very young age, a common practice in India at the time. His grandparents gave him immense freedom, allowing him to explore the world around him without restrictions. This formative period laid the foundation for his unorthodox views and questioning nature. Osho later described this time as one of the most significant phases of his life, as it allowed him to think freely and develop a deep connection with nature.
Education and Philosophical Beginnings
Osho completed his primary education in Gadarwara, where he moved back to live with his parents after his grandfather’s death. He pursued higher education at Hitkarini College in Jabalpur but was soon expelled for his argumentative and rebellious behaviour. He then transferred to D. N. Jain College, where he completed his undergraduate degree in philosophy. Osho went on to earn a master’s degree in philosophy from Sagar University in 1957
During his college years, Osho’s fascination with meditation deepened. He experimented with various spiritual practices and sought answers to life’s bigger questions. By his early 20s, he claimed to have achieved enlightenment, a transformative experience that profoundly influenced his teachings.
The Journey of a Guru
Osho’s journey as a spiritual leader began in the 1960s. He was known for challenging traditional beliefs and encouraging individuals to question societal norms. His discourses often addressed taboo subjects such as sex, materialism, and organised religion, earning him both ardent followers and fierce critics.
In the 1970s, he established his first ashram in Pune, Maharashtra, which attracted thousands of seekers worldwide. His teachings blended insights from Eastern philosophies like Zen and Taoism with Western concepts of freedom and individuality.
Osho’s Move to the US: The Oregon Chapter
In 1981, Osho relocated to the U.S., seeking a new base for his growing community. He established Rajneeshpuram, a sprawling commune in the remote town of Antelope, Oregon. This marked one of the most dramatic and controversial phases of his life. Rajneeshpuram became a fully functioning city, complete with its own infrastructure, and attracted thousands of followers from around the world.
The commune’s rapid expansion and the unconventional practices of its residents drew suspicion and hostility from local authorities and neighbouring communities. Tensions escalated, leading to legal battles over land use and immigration violations. Osho’s close aides, particularly his secretary Ma Anand Sheela (Get her memoir HERE), were embroiled in serious criminal activities, including a bioterror attack in 1984, which poisoned over 700 people in a local town. These events made international headlines and tarnished Osho’s reputation.
In 1985, Osho himself was arrested and charged with immigration fraud. After a controversial plea bargain, he left the U.S. under the condition that he would not return for five years. This marked the end of Rajneeshpuram and the dissolution of his dream commune.
This phase of his life is the focus of the Emmy-winning Netflix documentary Wild Wild Country. The series introduced Osho’s life to a new generation, sparking renewed interest in his philosophy and books.
Osho’s Return to Mumbai and Later Years
After being deported from the U.S., Osho attempted to establish a new base for his community. However, he faced denial of entry in several countries due to his controversial reputation. He finally returned to Mumbai in 1986, where he began re-establishing his spiritual practice.
Osho eventually settled back in his ashram in Pune, which was revitalised and renamed the Osho International Meditation Resort. In his final years, he continued delivering discourses to his followers, addressing topics ranging from spirituality and love to existential philosophy.
Osho’s health deteriorated in the late 1980s, and on 19 January 1990, he passed away in Pune. While his life was marked by controversy and polarising opinions, his teachings have endured, continuing to inspire millions of readers worldwide.
Interestingly, Osho did not write traditional books. His works are transcriptions of his discourses, where he delved into topics like meditation, love, and consciousness. These discourses were recorded, translated into multiple languages, and compiled into books by his followers. This makes his writings conversational, accessible, and deeply impactful.
Today, Osho’s teachings are available in over 50 languages, making his philosophy accessible to seekers worldwide.
Looking to explore Osho’s teachings? Check out these curated reads:
Top Osho Books That Will Change Your Perspective on Life
Books Recommended by Osho: A Gateway to Self-Discovery
Osho bestsellers:
