Who Did The Beatles Meditate With?

The Tranquil Quest with the Maharishi

In the colorful and transformative era of the 1960s, the Beatles embarked on a spiritual journey that would not only redefine their music but also usher in a wave of Eastern spiritualism into Western culture. This journey led them to the feet of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, a figure who at the time was as revolutionary in the field of spirituality as the Beatles were in music.

The Magical Meeting in London

It all began in August 1967, when the Beatles attended a lecture given by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi at the Hilton Hotel in London. Maharishi, a proponent of Transcendental Meditation (TM), intrigued the Fab Four with his promises of spiritual enlightenment and peace of mind, attributes that were increasingly appealing amidst the whirlwind of fame and controversy that surrounded the band. TM, a form of silent mantra meditation, promised a simple path to inner peace and self-realization, ideas that resonated with the Beatles and their quest for meaning beyond their music.

Eager to dive deeper, the Beatles, along with a few close family members and friends, made the pilgrimage to Rishikesh, India, in February 1968 to attend an advanced Transcendental Meditation training session at Maharishi’s ashram. This trip not only marked a pivotal moment in the Beatles’ spiritual journey but also spotlighted the practice of TM on the global stage.

The Impact on Music and Beyond

There’s no denying the profound impact that this spiritual sojourn had on the Beatles’ music. The White Album, recorded after their return from India, is punctuated with lyrical and musical references to their experiences and learnings there. Songs like “Dear Prudence,” inspired by Mia Farrow’s sister Prudence Farrow, who was also in Rishikesh and became intensely devoted to meditation, reflect the serene and introspective influences of their time spent with Maharishi.

But the Beatles’ flirtation with TM wasn’t just a trip down the spiritual rabbit hole – it dramatically brought Eastern spirituality to the living rooms of the Western world. Suddenly, meditation, yoga, and a slew of other Eastern practices weren’t just for the mystics or the culturally avant-garde; they became mainstream, a legacy that arguably continues to this day.

However, it wasn’t all peace, love, and harmonious chords. The Beatles’ association with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi ended on a somewhat discordant note, with allegations and disenchantment muddying the waters. John Lennon, in particular, expressed his disillusionment through the song “Sexy Sadie,” originally penned with much more direct references to Maharishi before being toned down.

Despite the mixed outcomes, the Beatles’ journey to India remains a fascinating chapter in their storied career. It was a bold exploration of spirituality and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of the tumultuous 60s. The band’s brief dalliance with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi not only left an indelible mark on their music but also played a pivotal role in popularizing meditation in the West. It’s a testament to the Beatles’ everlasting influence, proving that their legacy extends far beyond their timeless tunes, embodying a bridge between cultures and a beacon of spiritual inquiry.

So, the next time “Across the Universe” streams into your ears, remember, it’s more than just a song; it’s a glimpse into a journey of four lads from Liverpool who momentarily traded their guitars for meditation mats, in search of something beyond the music.