The Time The Beatles Tried Meditation In India And It Changed Their Songwriting

March 20, 2025

In the spring of 1968, The Beatles, the world-famous rock band, found themselves at a crossroads. After years of fame, constant tours, and the pressure of being on top, they were feeling drained and uninspired. In search of something deeper, something that could reignite their passion for music, they decided to embark on a journey to India. It was a place known for its rich culture and spirituality, and they hoped it would help them rediscover themselves and their creativity.

Upon arriving in Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, The Beatles joined a meditation retreat led by the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Surrounded by tranquil rivers and lush greenery, they found a stark contrast to the chaotic life they were used to. As they sat in silence, meditating for hours, their minds began to clear, and they felt an overwhelming sense of peace wash over them. The worries about fame and fortune faded, replaced by a profound connection to the world around them. It was in this serene environment that their music began to change.

As they dove deeper into meditation, The Beatles started writing songs that reflected their newfound understanding of life and spirituality. John Lennon penned “Across the Universe,” a song filled with poetic imagery and a sense of universal love. Paul McCartney was inspired to create “Blackbird,” a beautiful melody about freedom and hope. The music they wrote during this time was not just about love or heartache anymore; it spoke to something much bigger—the search for truth and inner peace. The simplest melodies were infused with deep emotions, and the lyrics resonated with a message of unity and understanding.

The retreat lasted for several weeks, but the impact it had on The Beatles was long-lasting. They returned to London not just as musicians but as a band transformed by their experiences in India. Their next album, “The Beatles” or the “White Album,” was a collection of diverse songs that showcased their growth, both as individuals and as artists. It included tracks that varied from rock to folk, and even included the experimental sounds they had been inspired to explore while meditating.

This journey into meditation also inspired a new way of living for each of them. They began to appreciate the little things in life and found joy in simple moments. George Harrison, who was particularly drawn to Indian culture, continued to explore Eastern philosophy and music, paving the way for a lifelong love affair that would shape his solo career. The Beatles taught their fans that music could be a powerful tool for personal transformation, and that searching for inner peace could lead to creativity beyond imagination.

Years later, when people looked back on The Beatles’ journey to India, they saw it as a pivotal moment in music history. It was a time when four young men dared to step away from the spotlight in search of something true and meaningful. Through meditation, they found not just new melodies, but also a deeper understanding of themselves and the world. Their resilience and passion for music turned this journey into an inspiration for generations to come, reminding us that sometimes, the greatest creativity comes from within.