Rajneesh

Date of Birth: December 11, 1931

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: January 19, 1990

Biography

Rajneesh, often referred to as Osho, was an Indian spiritual leader, mystic, and founder of the Rajneesh movement. Born Chandra Mohan Jain, he became widely known for his teachings on meditation, mindfulness, love, creativity, and a more open attitude towards human sexuality. Rajneesh initially gained a significant following in India during the 1960s and then expanded his influence internationally. His commune in Pune became a popular destination for thousands seeking spiritual guidance and personal growth. Rajneesh’s teachings often emphasized the importance of experiencing life fully and embracing the present moment. He advocated for a radical break from traditional religious practices and norms, encouraging his followers to find their own path to enlightenment. His philosophy combined elements of Eastern mysticism with Western psychology, making it accessible to a broad audience. In the early 1980s, Rajneesh and his followers established a large commune in Wasco County, Oregon, known as Rajneeshpuram. The commune became controversial due to its rapid expansion, conflicts with local residents, and legal battles. Rajneesh was eventually deported from the United States in 1985 after pleading guilty to immigration fraud. He returned to India, where he continued to teach until his death in 1990.

5 Interesting Facts about Rajneesh

1. Rajneesh was known for his extensive library, which contained over 100,000 books on various subjects, reflecting his wide-ranging intellectual interests.

2. He was a professor of philosophy before becoming a full-time spiritual teacher.

3. Rajneesh’s teachings incorporated elements from various religious traditions, including Buddhism, Hinduism, Jainism, and Christianity.

4. He was known for his dynamic meditation techniques, which included physical activities like shaking, dancing, and jumping, followed by periods of silence.

5. Rajneesh’s commune in Oregon was involved in the largest bioterror attack in U.S. history, where followers contaminated salad bars with salmonella to influence local elections.