Rajneeshpuram: Inside the Cult of Bhagwan and Its Failed American Utopia

Russell King's book "Rajneeshpuram" is a definitive account of the Rajneeshpuram commune in Oregon, which collapsed in 1984 due to criminal conspiracies and attempted murders. It explores the charismatic power of Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh and Sheela, the turbulent legal and political environment, and the commune leaders' willingness to deceive, poison, and murder to preserve their home and their master.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 31 December 2023
Publisher: Chicago Review Press

  The book also sheds light on the complex web of relationships between Bhagwan,Sheela,and their followers,including the controversial guru-disciple romance that scandalized the commune and led to Bhagwan's exile in 1985.   In 1981,a young Indian guru named Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh arrived in the United States with the ambitious goal of creating a utopia for his thousands of followers. He chose a remote ranch in Oregon to establish his commune,Rajneeshpuram. The commune quickly grew to become one of the largest and most influential spiritual communities in the world,with its followers known for their dedication, devotion, and unconventional lifestyle.   However,Rajneeshpuram's success was not without its challenges. The commune faced opposition from local residents,who were concerned about the impact of the community on the environment and the local economy. The commune also faced scrutiny from the government,which was investigating allegations of fraud and abuse within the community.   In 1984,the commune was rocked by a series of scandals that threatened to tear it apart. One of the most significant scandals was the revelation of a romantic relationship between Bhagwan and his most senior disciple,Sheela. The relationship scandalized the commune and led to Bhagwan's exile in 1985.   Despite these challenges,Rajneeshpuram continued to thrive for several more years. However,in 1990,the commune was finally shut down by the government,which cited concerns about the community's impact on the local community and the environment.   Rajneeshpuram is a fascinating and complex story that explores the power of charisma,the allure of utopian ideals,and the dark side of human nature. The book is written by Russell King,a journalist and author who has spent years researching and writing about the Rajneeshpuram commune. King's book is based on extensive interviews with former disciples and an exhaustive review of commune records,government and police files,and archival materials.   One of the most striking aspects of Rajneeshpuram is the power that Bhagwan and Sheela exercised over their followers. The duo were known for their charismatic personalities and their ability to inspire and motivate their followers to achieve their goals. They were also known for their strict rules and regulations,which governed every aspect of their followers' lives.   However,Rajneeshpuram also sheds light on the darker side of Bhagwan and Sheela's personalities. The duo were known for their authoritarianism and their willingness to use force to maintain control over their followers. They were also known for their willingness to deceive and manipulate their followers to achieve their goals.   Rajneeshpuram also explores the complex web of relationships between Bhagwan,Sheela,and their followers. The book highlights the controversial guru-disciple romance that scandalized the commune and led to Bhagwan's exile in 1985. The romance was a source of tension and conflict within the community,as some followers believed that it was inappropriate for a guru to be involved with a disciple.   In conclusion,Rajneeshpuram is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the spiritual community,the power of charisma,and the dark side of human nature. The book is a fresh examination of the Rajneesh story,using newly available information and interviews with high-ranking disciples who have never before shared their stories. The book also sheds light on the complex web of relationships between Bhagwan,Sheela,and their followers,including the controversial guru-disciple romance that scandalized the commune and led to Bhagwan's exile in 1985.

Weight: 582g
Dimension: 144 x 224 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781641609029