Do the Rajneeshees still exist? It’s a question I’ve been pondering for quite some time now. I remember hearing about this controversial cult back in the mid-80s, but since then, I’ve heard nothing. So, I decided to do some digging, and I was pleasantly surprised to find out that they do, in fact, still exist.
For those who don’t know, the Rajneeshees are a spiritual movement founded by an Indian guru named Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh. Their practices and beliefs were viewed by many as controversial and extreme, leading to conflicts with the government and local residents. But what happened to them after all of the chaos and controversies?
After their leader, Bhagwan, passed away in 1990, many believed that the Rajneeshees would cease to exist. But, much to the surprise of many, they continued to thrive, albeit on a much smaller scale. Today, the group is said to be focused more on teaching and meditation, rather than the controversial practices that got them into trouble years ago. It certainly makes one wonder: what is it about this group that has allowed them to survive all of these years despite facing so much adversity?
Who are the Rajneeshees?
The Rajneeshees, also known as the followers of Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh or Osho, were a controversial spiritual movement that gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s. The group was initially formed in India, where Osho established his spiritual community. The Rajneeshees believed in his teachings, which combined elements of Indian mysticism, Zen Buddhism, and Western philosophy.
The movement eventually shifted its focus to the United States, where they purchased a large ranch in Oregon in the early 1980s. The community on the ranch, also called Rajneeshpuram, grew rapidly, with members from all over the world. However, tensions with the local government and residents of nearby towns led to a series of legal battles and eventual collapse of the community.
- The Rajneeshees were known for their distinctive clothing, often wearing shades of red and maroon.
- The group also promoted an open approach to sexuality and relationships, which was considered controversial by many at the time.
- Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh died in 1990, and the movement experienced a decline in popularity after his death.
Today, the Rajneeshees continue to exist, albeit on a much smaller scale than in their heyday. Some former members have formed their own spiritual communities, while others have integrated back into mainstream society. The Rajneeshees remain a fascinating and controversial chapter in the history of alternative movements, leaving behind a legacy that continues to intrigue and inspire people to this day.
What happened in Rajneespuram?
Rajneespuram was a small city established in the early 1980s in the state of Oregon by the followers of Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, an Indian spiritual teacher. The group, also known as Rajneeshees, purchased a large parcel of land in Oregon and founded their own self-contained community. However, over time, tensions between the Rajneeshees and the local and state government escalated, eventually leading to the demise of the community and the Rajneeshees’ departure from the United States.
- The Rajneeshees built a sprawling commune in the Oregon countryside, complete with a hospital, post office, schools, and other infrastructure. At its peak, the population of Rajneespuram reached 7,000 people.
- The Rajneeshees’ presence in Oregon was met with resistance from the local community. Tensions peaked in 1984 when members of the Rajneeshees used biological weapons to sicken more than 700 people in a nearby town. The group also engaged in political intrigue, including attempting to rig the local elections. The FBI eventually became involved, and several Rajneeshees were prosecuted for various crimes.
- In 1985, Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh was arrested on immigration charges and deported from the U.S. He returned to India and died in 1990.
The Rajneeshees’ departure from the U.S. was abrupt and marked the end of the community at Rajneespuram. The city was abandoned and fell into disrepair. Today, the land is privately owned and is used for cattle grazing.
Legacy of Rajneespuram
Although the Rajneeshees’ time in Rajneespuram was short-lived, the group left a lasting impact on the local community and on American culture more broadly. The Rajneeshees’ utopian project was part of a larger movement of spiritual seekers and alternative communities in the 1960s and 70s. Their emphasis on personal growth, meditation, and freedom from societal norms influenced many individuals and communities.
Additionally, the events in Rajneespuram highlighted the tensions between freedom of religion and the responsibility of communities to uphold laws and norms. The story of the Rajneeshees continues to fascinate and intrigue those interested in counterculture, spiritual movements, and American history.
| Key Dates | Event |
|---|---|
| 1981 | Rajneespuram established in Oregon |
| 1984 | Biological attack on nearby town |
| 1985 | Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh deported from U.S. |
Sources: History.com, The Oregonian
Did the Rajneeshees commit bioterrorism?
One of the most infamous incidents involving the Rajneeshees was the bioterror attack that took place in 1984, which saw the intentional contamination of salad bars in a number of restaurants in The Dalles, Oregon with salmonella. This attack was carried out with the intention of suppressing voter turnout in an election for local officials, which the Rajneeshees hoped to sway in their favor.
The attack resulted in over 700 cases of salmonella infection, with the majority of the victims being non-Rajneeshee residents. While it’s unclear exactly how many Rajneeshees were involved in the planning and execution of the attack, it’s widely believed that it was carried out under the orders of the group’s leader, Osho.
The Rajneeshees’ involvement in the attack on The Dalles community garnered significant media attention and led to a massive investigation by federal law enforcement agencies. In the end, several high-ranking Rajneeshee officials, including the group’s primary health inspector, were charged and found guilty of a variety of crimes related to the attack and other illegal activities.
Some other notable facts about the bioterrorism incident:
- The attack was originally intended to involve a much more dangerous infectious agent, but the Rajneeshees were unable to acquire the necessary materials to execute their plan.
- The contamination of the salad bars was carried out by Rajneeshee members using eyedroppers to administer the bacteria to lettuce, cucumber, and other vegetables.
- The attack was only one part of a larger effort by the Rajneeshees to take over the local government of The Dalles and establish their own political and social order.
The aftermath of the bioterrorism incident:
The attack on The Dalles community was a turning point for the Rajneeshees, who faced increased scrutiny from law enforcement agencies and the public at large in the wake of the incident. While the group continued to operate for several more years, the fallout from the attack and other illegal activities ultimately led to the downfall of the Rajneeshees and the dispersal of many of its members.
The bioterrorism incident is widely regarded as one of the most notorious instances of domestic terrorism in American history and serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of extreme ideological movements and the lengths to which they may go to achieve their goals.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The Rajneeshees drew attention to their cause and beliefs through media coverage of the attack | The attack caused significant harm and suffering to the victims of the salmonella outbreak |
| The incident highlighted the need for increased vigilance against domestic terrorism and radical movements | The Rajneeshees’ actions undermined the credibility of their movement and damaged their reputation |
| The perpetrators of the attack were ultimately brought to justice and held accountable for their actions | The incident spurred a heightened fear of contamination and distrust of salad bars and other self-serve food options |
Overall, the Rajneeshees’ involvement in the bioterror attack on The Dalles community remains a dark chapter in the history of the group and a cautionary tale about the dangers of extremist ideology and the use of violence to achieve political ends.
Why did the Rajneeshees wear orange and red?
One of the most recognizable things about the Rajneeshees was their attire. The followers of Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, also known as Osho, wore bright orange and red clothes. This was not a random choice, and there were reasons behind these vibrant hues.
- Saffron robes: The orange color that the Rajneeshees wore was meant to represent the robes of Indian swamis, who were respected spiritual leaders in Shree Rajneesh’s native country. It was also a symbol of asceticism and renunciation, two important concepts in Indian spirituality.
- Individuality: In the early days of the movement, Shree Rajneesh encouraged his followers to express themselves and their individuality. The use of bright colors was one way for them to do so. Wearing orange and red clothes was a way of standing out from the rest of society and showing their commitment to the teachings of Osho.
- Energizing color: Orange is also known as a “high-energy” color, and it was believed that wearing it would help to increase the energy levels of those who wore it. The color was also said to represent the rising sun and new beginnings.
However, not all Rajneeshees wore the same clothes. The color scheme was generally followed, but the clothing styles were varied. Some women wore saris, while others opted for pantsuits. Men sometimes wore traditional Indian clothes or Western suits. The important thing was the use of bright colors.
To further emphasize the importance of color, Osho created a meditation technique called the “Mystic Rose.” During this three-week meditation, participants would wear only one color each week: red, yellow, then white. The colors were symbolic of different spiritual qualities and helped participants to focus on those qualities during meditation.
| Color | Symbolism |
|---|---|
| Red | Passion, love, energy |
| Yellow | Joy, sunshine, intellect |
| White | Purity, cleanliness, meditation |
Although the Rajneeshees are no longer as visible as they once were, their use of bright colors remains a recognizable part of their legacy. Whether it was for individuality, symbolism, or energy, the wearing of orange and red clothes was one way that the followers of Osho chose to express their devotion to his teachings.
What is Osho’s teaching philosophy?
Osho, formerly known as Rajneesh, was an Indian spiritual guru and leader of the Rajneeshees. He founded a movement based on his teachings that focused on spiritual awareness, meditation, and personal transformation. His philosophy was heavily influenced by Hindu and Buddhist teachings and emphasized the importance of living in the present moment and becoming more conscious of one’s thoughts and emotions.
- Individuality: Osho believed that everyone is unique and that their individuality should be celebrated and expressed. He encouraged his followers to embrace their true selves and live authentically.
- Meditation: Meditation was a central practice in Osho’s teachings. He believed that through meditation, one could achieve a state of awareness and connect with the divine.
- Religion: Osho was critical of organized religion and believed that spirituality should be a personal experience, rather than one dictated by religious institutions.
Osho’s teachings were not without controversy, however. He was accused of encouraging drug use and engaging in sexual misconduct with his followers. Despite this, his teachings still have a following today and continue to inspire those seeking spiritual enlightenment.
Below is a table summarizing some of Osho’s key teachings:
| Teaching | Description |
|---|---|
| Mindfulness | Practicing awareness of one’s thoughts and emotions in the present moment. |
| Non-attachment | Letting go of attachments to material possessions, people, and experiences in order to achieve inner peace. |
| Authenticity | Encouraging individuals to be true to themselves and express their unique individuality. |
| Meditation | Practicing meditation in order to achieve a state of awareness and connect with the divine. |
| Creativity | Encouraging individuals to express themselves creatively, whether through art, music, or other means. |
Overall, Osho’s teachings emphasize the importance of living in the present moment, becoming more aware of oneself, and embracing one’s true individuality. While controversial, his teachings continue to inspire those seeking spiritual enlightenment and personal transformation.
How did the Rajneeshees impact Oregon’s politics?
The Rajneeshees, also known as the Rajneesh movement, had a significant impact on Oregon’s politics during their brief stay in the state in the 1980s. Here are some of the ways they influenced the political landscape:
- The Rajneeshees founded their own city, Rajneeshpuram, in rural Oregon. This led to tension with neighboring communities and a high-profile conflict with the state government.
- The Rajneeshees attempted to influence local politics by encouraging members to register to vote and supporting sympathetic candidates in elections.
- The Rajneeshees were accused of multiple criminal activities, including wiretapping, immigration fraud, and an attempted assassination. These incidents brought the group into conflict with local law enforcement and the FBI.
Despite their controversial and ultimately unsuccessful attempt to establish a new religious community in Oregon, the Rajneeshees left an indelible mark on the state’s history.
One of the most significant impacts of the Rajneeshees on Oregon’s politics was the way their presence highlighted the issue of religious freedom. The group’s leader, Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, was a charismatic guru who attracted thousands of followers from around the world. The Rajneeshees believed that they had a right to live as a religious community apart from the rest of society, and they fought to preserve this right in the face of opposition from local and state authorities. This struggle culminated in a series of legal battles and confrontations with law enforcement that received national attention.
In addition, the Rajneeshees’ involvement in local politics served as a reminder of the power of grassroots organizing. Despite the fact that the group was ultimately unsuccessful in their attempts to sway elections in their favor, they demonstrated the potential for a committed group of individuals to have a real impact on the political process.
Overall, the story of the Rajneeshees in Oregon is a complex and fascinating chapter in the state’s history. While the group’s legacy is certainly controversial, their impact on politics and society cannot be denied.
| Impact of Rajneeshees on Oregon’s politics | Examples |
|---|---|
| Religious freedom | The struggle to preserve the right to create a separate religious community |
| Grassroots organizing | The Rajneeshees’ attempt to influence local politics and sway elections |
| Law enforcement | The Rajneeshees’ conflict with local and federal authorities, including charges of criminal activity |
These factors, along with others, contributed to the Rajneeshees’ lasting impact on Oregon’s politics and culture.
Where are the Rajneeshees now?
The Rajneeshees, also known as Osho movement, were a controversial spiritual group that formed in India in the 1970s. They eventually settled in Central Oregon, where they built their own city named Rajneeshpuram. However, the community disbanded in the mid-1980s after their leader, Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, was deported from the United States. But where are the Rajneeshees now? Here are some possible answers:
- India: Many former Rajneeshees returned to India after the community disbanded. They scattered across the country and resumed their spiritual practices.
- United States: Some Rajneeshees chose to stay in the US and integrate into mainstream society. Others formed smaller communities in different parts of the country.
- Europe: The Osho movement still has a following in Europe, and there are many Rajneesh-inspired meditation centers and communes across the continent.
But what about the former leaders and members of the Rajneeshees? Here are some notable examples:
Sheela Silverman, also known as Ma Anand Sheela, was Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh’s personal secretary and the de facto leader of the Rajneeshees during their time in Oregon. She served prison time for various charges related to her role in the community, including attempted murder, wiretapping, and immigration fraud. She later moved to Switzerland and founded two nursing homes for the elderly.
Ma Anand Sheela has also been the subject of several documentaries and TV shows in recent years, which have brought renewed interest in the Rajneeshees and their controversial history.
As for Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh himself, he returned to India after his deportation from the US. He renamed himself Osho and continued teaching in different parts of the world until his death in 1990. Today, the Osho International Meditation Resort in Pune, India is a popular destination for spiritual seekers.
| Name | Role in Rajneeshees | Current whereabouts |
|---|---|---|
| Ma Anand Sheela | Personal secretary and de facto leader | Switzerland |
| Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh | Founder and spiritual leader | Deceased (India) |
| Sheela Birnstiel | Rajneeshee spokesperson and public relations director | Switzerland |
| Philip Toelkes | Former Rajneeshee lawyer | United States |
| Jayesh Shah | Osho International Foundation trustee | India |
Overall, the legacy of the Rajneeshees continues to be debated and discussed among spiritual communities and the general public. While the community may no longer exist in its original form, its impact on the people who were part of it and the world at large is still being felt today.
FAQs: Do the Rajneeshees Still Exist?
Q: Who are the Rajneeshees?
A: The Rajneeshees, also known as the Rajneesh movement or Osho movement, was a religious cult that originated in India in the 1970s. They were led by Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, later known as Osho.
Q: What happened to the Rajneeshees?
A: The Rajneeshees established their headquarters in Oregon in the early 1980s, where they became embroiled in a number of controversies. Eventually, their leader was deported from the United States and the group disbanded.
Q: Are there still any active Rajneeshees?
A: There is no longer an organized Rajneesh movement, but there may still be individuals who practice the teachings of Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh/Osho.
Q: Did the Rajneeshees engage in illegal activities?
A: The Rajneeshees were involved in a number of illegal activities, including wiretapping, election fraud, and the attempted murder of a county commissioner.
Q: Was there a documentary about the Rajneeshees?
A: Yes, the documentary “Wild Wild Country” was released on Netflix in 2018 and provides an in-depth look at the rise and fall of the Rajneeshees.
Q: Where can I learn more about the Rajneeshees?
A: There are many resources available, including books, documentaries, and online articles.
Q: Is it safe to interact with anyone who identifies as a former Rajneeshee?
A: There is no inherent danger in interacting with someone who used to be a part of the Rajneesh movement. However, it is always wise to use caution when meeting new people.
Closing Thoughts: Thanks for Reading!
We hope this article has helped answer some of your questions about the Rajneeshees. While the group is no longer active, their story remains a fascinating and cautionary tale. If you’re interested in learning more, we encourage you to check out some of the resources we’ve mentioned. Thanks for reading, and we hope to see you again soon!