Vinod Khanna made a surprising decision to leave Bollywood at the peak of his fame in 1982, and join Osho’s commune in Rajneeshpuram, Oregon. This move came at a time when he was one of the industry’s leading stars, known for his charisma and talent. His departure from the film industry to pursue deep meditation and spiritual enlightenment was not just a personal choice; it also left a significant impact on his family and fans.
During this pivotal time, Amitabh Bachchan, who was rapidly rising to superstardom, reportedly urged Khanna to reconsider his decision.Senior journalist Bhawana Somaaya recounted in an interview with Hindi Rush YouTube channel that Bachchan felt strongly about Khanna’s choice. “Bachchan wasn’t responsible for Khanna’s career, was he? He alone couldn’t have done anything. Khanna was a very good-looking actor; talented, sensitive… Vinod Khanna got lost within himself. He chose to follow Rajneesh,” she explained.
Somaaya noted that, “In fact, Amitabh Bachchan pleaded with him not to go ahead with his decision. Shashi Kapoor also told him to reconsider. Every actor and director told him not to leave, that it would be the wrong thing to do. But he was sure he wanted to leave the industry, and he left. He was there with Osho for a long time, and then he returned, and he was able to restart his career. His career was fine, according to me.”
Despite these pleas, Khanna held firm in his decision. He called a press conference to announce his departure from the film industry, indicating that he was resolute in his quest for spiritual fulfillment. His commitment to Osho was profound; he even stated in an interview with Simmi Garewal that his choice was selfish but necessary for his personal growth. “It is! Unless you’re selfish, you can’t do anything like this. Because it’s your own being that has to find that transcendence,” he remarked, adding, “Everybody has to travel alone. You come alone, you go alone. You have to travel your path.”
After spending nearly two years at Rajneeshpuram, Vinod Khanna returned to India, upon his return, Mahesh Bhatt helped him reintegrate into Bollywood with the film ‘Jurm,’ marking a new chapter in his career.
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