Osho

Chandra Mohan Jain (1931 – 1990), also known as Acharya Rajneesh from the 1960s onwards, as Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh during the 1970s and 1980s, and as Osho from 1989, was an Indian mystic, guru and spiritual teacher. His international following has continued after his death. A professor of philosophy, he traveled throughout India during the 1960s as a speaker. His outspoken criticism of politicians Mahatma Gandhi and institutionalised religion made him controversial. He advocated a more open attitude towards sexuality, a stance which earned him the sobriquet of “sex guru” in the press. His syncretic teachings emphasise the importance of meditation, awareness, love, celebration, courage, creativity and humour: qualities he viewed as suppressed by adherence to static belief systems, religious tradition and socialisation[citation needed]. Rajneesh’s teachings have had a notable influence on Western spirituality, as well as New Age thought. Their popularity has increased since his death.