The Beatles’ Spiritual Guide Maharishi Mahesh Yogi — And Why They Left Him

April 2, 2025

In the serene valleys of Rishikesh, India, a captivating figure stood at the center of a whirlwind of spiritual curiosity: Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. He was a man whose calm demeanor and wise words drew people from all walks of life, including the four members of The Beatles. In the late 1960s, John, Paul, George, and Ringo embarked on a journey to seek enlightenment through transcendental meditation. They believed that the Maharishi could help them find inner peace and inspiration, both in their personal lives and their music. The tranquil surroundings of the ashram felt like a world away from the chaos of fame, and for a time, it seemed they were on the path to something profound.

As the days went by in the ashram, the band immersed themselves in meditation and philosophical discussions. The Beatles were enchanted by Maharishi’s teachings, which promised a higher state of consciousness and a deep connection to the universe. John found clarity in his often tumultuous mind, while George felt a spiritual awakening that sparked new creativity in his songwriting. Paul was drawn to the simplicity of the meditation practice, seeing it as a way to channel the energy he had for music. Ringo simply enjoyed the peace and freedom that the place offered, away from the constant demands of the music industry.

However, as weeks turned into months, cracks began to appear in this blissful experience. The Maharishi, who had initially seemed like a beacon of wisdom, started to exhibit qualities that left the band feeling uneasy. John and Paul, in particular, began to sense a growing disconnect, as they noticed some of Maharishi’s actions contradicted his teachings. Rumors swirled about his lavish lifestyle and his relationships with female followers, which clashed with the simplicity and humility they had come to cherish in their time with him. It became apparent that the profound peace they were seeking might not be found in the man they had so idolized.

The turning point came one fateful night when John, feeling a mix of confusion and frustration, confronted the Maharishi about his behavior. The conversation quickly escalated, and it became clear to the band that their paths were diverging. They needed their spiritual journeys to continue, but not under the guidance of someone who did not embody the principles they sought to embrace. So, with heavy hearts and a sense of liberation, The Beatles left the ashram and the Maharishi behind, embracing the uncertainty of their next chapter.

Leaving the Maharishi marked a significant turning point in their lives and careers. While it could have been a moment of despair, it instead sparked a renewed passion for their music. Each member found their own creative voice and direction, leading to the creation of some of their most iconic albums. George infused his spiritual beliefs into songs like “Within You Without You,” while Paul channeled his emotions into heartfelt ballads. John emerged with a fiery desire to express his thoughts more candidly than ever before, culminating in works that challenged societal norms.

In the face of disappointment, The Beatles learned that true growth often comes from stepping away from what no longer serves you. They discovered that their greatest inspiration lay not in a single figure, but within themselves and their experiences. As they moved forward, they embraced the challenges of life, fueled by music and the wisdom they had gathered. Their resilience shone through, reminding us all that sometimes, the end of one journey is merely the beginning of another, richer one.