The Beatles traveled to India in February 1968 primarily to study Transcendental Meditation (TM) under the guidance of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. This trip came at a time when the band members were seeking spiritual and personal growth amid the pressures of their fame and the tensions within the group.
Several factors contributed to their decision to visit India:
Interest in Eastern spirituality: The Beatles had become increasingly interested in Eastern philosophy and spirituality, particularly through their interactions with musicians, artists, and intellectuals who were exploring these ideas during the 1960s. George Harrison, in particular, had a deep interest in Indian culture and music, which influenced the other band members.
Meeting Maharishi Mahesh Yogi: The Beatles first encountered Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in August 1967 when he visited London. They were impressed by his teachings on Transcendental Meditation and the potential for personal transformation through meditation practices. This led them to seek further instruction from Maharishi by traveling to his ashram (retreat center) in Rishikesh, India.
Desire for retreat and relaxation: The Beatles were also seeking a break from the pressures of their celebrity lifestyle and the intense media attention they faced. The tranquil setting of the Maharishi's ashram in the foothills of the Himalayas provided them with a peaceful retreat where they could focus on meditation and introspection away from the public eye.
During their time in India, the Beatles immersed themselves in meditation practices, attended lectures by Maharishi, and spent time writing and composing songs. The experience had a significant impact on their personal and creative lives, influencing the music they created both during and after their stay in India.
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment