The enigmatic world of spiritual guru Osho remains unknown to many. It is said that Osho enchanted people nationally and internationally with his profound wisdom and magnetic oratory. Osho, originally named Chandr Mohan Jain, was born on December 11, 1931, in Kuchwada, Madhya Pradesh. His followers today celebrate this date as his Liberation Day. Known for openly expressing his views on every subject, he often found himself amidst controversies. While some saw him as a sex guru, others valued him as a true spiritual leader.
Osho's popularity soared so high that he established a city in the United States called 'Rajneeshpuram'. This city became a hub of attention, where his disciples referred to him as Bhagwan Rajneesh or simply God. His following overseas was immense.
In 1974, Osho, along with his followers, moved to Pune and established the Shree Rajneesh Ashram. Here, his teachings began to gain widespread recognition. Numerous celebrities and film stars became intrigued by his philosophies. However, in the 1980s, Indian media and government began to criticize his concepts, leading Osho to close his Pune ashram.
Source: aajtak
Subsequently, Osho ventured to America and laid the foundations of a city named Rajneeshpuram in central Oregon, covering approximately 65,000 acres. Once a barren wilderness known as Big Muddy Ranch, it transformed into a thriving city within three years. This was Osho's primary base and abode.
Osho's Dream City
One of Osho's disciples, British psychologist Garrett, described the place as 'a city from dreams,' where laughter, sexual freedom, love, and a multitude of other freedoms thrived.
Osho's city was equipped with all modern amenities such as a fire brigade, restaurants, a police station, shopping malls, greenhouses, and community halls. His followers engaged in farming, gardening, and various contemporary lifestyle methods. Remarkably, the city even boasted its own airport. Yet, attempts to register it as a city were thwarted due to local opposition.
Source: aajtak
Posing Challenges to the US Government
Gradually, the number of Osho's followers on American soil began to swell, presenting a challenge and perceived threat to the Oregon government. Consequently, Osho and city residents faced accusations of immigration violations, fraud, wire-tapping, election tampering, and terrorism.
In October 1985, the US government charged Osho with 35 immigration violations. He paid a $400,000 penalty, was detained, and was ordered to leave the country immediately with a five-year reentry ban. The abandoned Rajneeshpuram city was handed over to a Christian youth camp organization, now known as Washington Family Ranch.
