Maharishi Mahesh Yogi.

Maharishi Mahesh Yogi: Introduction

Maharishi Mahesh Yogi was influential to numerous Western musicians. Indeed, The Beatles were one such band, in particular George Harrison. Moreover, their time in India with Yogi allowed them to come up with many ideas for songs. Indeed, when the Fab Four came back to the UK, they produced the White Album, one of the greatest collections of songs ever.

So, let’s explore the man they met while in India.

  • Mahesh Prasad Varma was born on January 12, 1918, in Jabalpur, India.
  • He completed a degree in physics from Allahabad University.
  • He also became a disciple of Swami Brahmananda Saraswati, the Shankaracharya of Jyotir Math in the Himalayas.
  • Maharishi Mahesh Yogi is best known for developing and popularizing Transcendental Meditation (TM) in the late 1950s.
  • TM is a simple, natural technique where one silently repeats a mantra for 15-20 minutes twice daily.

Global Influence:

  • In 1958, Maharishi began the Spiritual Regeneration Movement in Chennai, India.
  • Traveled internationally in the 1960s to promote TM, including Europe, North America, and Australia.
  • Gained popularity in the West during the countercultural movements of the 1960s and 1970s.
  • The Beatles met Maharishi in 1967 and visited his ashram in Rishikesh, India, in 1968.
  • This association brought significant media attention and popularity to TM.
  • Notable personalities such as Donovan, Mia Farrow, and Mike Love also became followers.

Although we look fondly back on The Beatles visit to India, it didn’t end well. That is because John Lennon got wise to what was going on. Whether it is true or not, we may never know.

Indeed, the main allegation was that Yogi made sexual advances towards actress Mia Farrow. Furthermore, Lennon came up with a song called Maharishi (What have you done?). However, Paul McCartney and George Harrison persuaded Lennon to change it. Hence, we get “Sexy Sadie.”

We may never know the truth about what went on over in India, but do we need to know? Of course, without that trip, we may not have the White Album!

  • Maharishi emphasized the scientific aspects of TM, collaborating with researchers to study its benefits.
  • Studies show TM’s positive effects on stress reduction, mental clarity, and overall health.

Establishment of Institutions:

  • He founded the Maharishi International University (now Maharishi University of Management) in Fairfield, Iowa, in 1974.
  • Developed various organizations and initiatives, including the Global Country of World Peace, to promote TM and Vedic knowledge.
  • Maharishi’s teachings are rooted in the Vedic tradition, emphasizing the potential of human consciousness.
  • Advocated for the practice of TM as a way to achieve higher states of consciousness and enlightenment.
  • Promoted the idea of “world peace” through collective meditation and the establishment of “peace-creating groups.”

Later Life and Legacy:

  • Maharishi retreated from public life in the 1990s, focusing on administrative work and writing.
  • Passed away on February 5, 2008, in Vlodrop, Netherlands.
  • Left a legacy of millions of TM practitioners and a lasting impact on global spiritual and wellness movements.
  1. Transcendental Meditation (TM):
    • Simple, mantra-based meditation technique.
    • Claimed benefits include reduced stress, increased creativity, and improved mental and physical health.
  2. Educational Initiatives:
    • Maharishi International University: Integrates TM into the curriculum.
    • Maharishi School of the Age of Enlightenment: Emphasizes consciousness-based education.
  3. Publications:
    • He authored numerous books on TM, Vedic philosophy, and consciousness.
    • Notable works include “Science of Being and Art of Living” and “Maharishi’s Absolute Theory of Government.”
  4. Cultural Impact:
    • TM influenced popular culture through high-profile followers.
    • Helped introduce and normalize meditation practices in the West.

Finally, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s influence extended beyond the realm of spirituality, impacting scientific research, education, and global peace initiatives. Furthermore, his teachings and the practice of transcendental meditation continue to be widely practiced and respected around the world.

So, what are your thoughts about Yogi? Also, do you think the India trip was important to the development of the White Album, etc? Before you comment, check out the following video:

Leave a Reply