Bhagwan Rajneesh’s attempts to travel to other countries after his expulsion from the USA in 1985 were rooted in a complex interplay of personal philosophy, practical needs, and possibly, his pursuit of global recognition.
By the time of his return, Rajneesh already had a controversial reputation in India due to his critique of traditional Indian religions and societal norms. His movement had faced significant opposition in the 1970s before he left for the USA. Thus, remaining in India might have felt limiting or even regressive to his vision.
Rajneesh’s teachings resonated more with Western seekers of spirituality who were disillusioned with organized religion. India, while his birthplace, was not as central to his vision as the global stage.
Rajneesh’s actions reflect a blend of boldness and pragmatism. He was a charismatic figure with a profound sense of his own influence. His attempts to visit other countries, despite repeated rejections, could be seen as “Test of resilience” and “Ego and Fame”
In hindsight, his eventual return to Pune allowed him to re-establish his movement’s base, which continues to thrive even decades after his death. However, at the time, Rajneesh might have felt that remaining in India contradicted his vision of being a global figure. His relentless pursuit of international access, though, could be interpreted as a mix of strategic ambition and personal conviction.
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