The Finances Behind Rajneeshpuram: Who Paid for the 65K Acre Land and How Did They Afford It?
The history of Rajneeshpuram, the commune in Oregon established by Osho (formerly Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh), is often shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Central to much of this intrigue is the financial mechanism that allowed for such a massive acquisition of land and the establishment of a thriving community.
The Rajneesh Community: A Profitable Business
The Rajneesh community was not just a religious or spiritual retreat; it was a hugely profitable enterprise. Visitors were charged considerable sums, creating a steady stream of revenue. The cost of studying at the Pune ashram was so prohibitive that many sannyasins turned to unconventional means such as prostitution or drug smuggling to make ends meet.
The Poona ashram is known to have enjoyed a total income of eighty million dollars during its boom years (1975 to 1980). The Rajneesh Foundation held bank accounts totaling 1.2 million dollars by 1980. Additionally, a recent book by Ma Anand Sheela, who was involved during this period, confirms that the high fees for group therapies led many female participants to engage in prostitution to afford their stay. This was seen as a compatible lifestyle within the commune's framework.
Money Raised at Rajneeshpuram
The ability to raise over $25 million in donations to purchase luxury items for Osho, such as 95 Rolls Royces and multimillion-dollar watches, is a testament to the community's financial prowess. It was not uncommon for rich visitors to unknowingly receive doses of MDMA during their stay, which altered their perception of the experience. Osho's mystique and the visitors' subsequent willingness to donate further solidified the community's financial stability.
According to Hugh Milne's recollections, Osho openly stated that the new commune would "grow money on trees," emphasizing the business-oriented approach to the community's operations. Between 1981 and 1985, an estimated $130 million flowed into the ranch.
Ambiguous Financial Strategies
The financial strategies employed by the Rajneesh community were not always transparent or straightforward. The visitor rooms were reportedly bugged and wiretapped, allowing the community to effectively solicit financial contributions from unsuspecting or brainwashed visitors. This leveled of manipulation and financial gain highlights the complex and often ethically questionable nature of the enterprise.
Recruitment and Financial Success
The success of the Rajneeshpuram community can be traced to its adeptness in recruitment and financial management. The combination of strict spiritual practices, charismatic leadership, and financial incentives (such as expensive retreats and therapies) created a loyal and devoted follower base. This loyalty translated into increased revenue, as visitors continued to donate or participate in financial enterprises managed by the community.
The enigmatic nature of Osho, who was both a spiritual leader and a man with a penchant for luxury, further fueled the community's financial success. His apparent wealth and the promise of spiritual enlightenment drew visitors and generated a steady stream of revenue.
Ultimately, the financial resources and methods employed by the Rajneesh community in Oregon played a crucial role in the establishment and operation of Rajneeshpuram. Understanding these financial mechanisms provides insight into the complex dynamics of the commune and the extent to which it was able to thrive and flourish.