The Beatles in India– The Documentary
The Beatles in India is a documentary film that explores the time that the iconic British band spent in India during the late 1960s. The film takes a closer look at the band’s trip to India and how it influenced their music and personal lives.
In 1968, The Beatles traveled to Rishikesh, India to attend a Transcendental Meditation course at the ashram of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. The band, along with their partners, stayed at the ashram for several weeks, during which time they wrote and recorded a large portion of their self-titled album, commonly known as the White Album.
The documentary features interviews with people who were present during The Beatles’ stay in India, including musicians, journalists, and other guests of the ashram. The film also includes never-before-seen footage and photographs of the band during their time in India.
The documentary explores the impact that India had on The Beatles’ music, as well as their personal lives. The band members were able to relax and unwind in the peaceful surroundings of the ashram, away from the pressures of their fame and the media. They also had the opportunity to learn about Indian culture and spirituality, which had a lasting impact on their music and personal philosophies.
The documentary also touches on the relationship between The Beatles and Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, who was a controversial figure at the time. Some people accused him of being a fraud and exploiting his followers for financial gain. The film explores The Beatles’ own views on the Maharishi and their experiences with him.
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“It’s from the mid-nineties that I think of a documentary on the Beatles’ journey to India,” said the film’s producer, Reynold D’Silva: “By pure coincidence, or maybe destiny, three different people put me in contact with Paul last year. After a first phone call, we agreed on the path to be taken to make this film.
Paul has a great deal of experience in his field, as well as a very clear vision and a deep knowledge of the subject he has treated “.
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The Beatles first met Maharishi in Bangor, Wales, in 1967: the Fab Four joined him a year later in Rishikesh in February, accompanied by a party of which the companions were part, assistants to several journalists.
Ringo Starr and his wife left the ashram after ten days, while McCartney stayed another three weeks: Harrison and Lennon interrupted their stay after six weeks following Maharishi’s accusations of harassment of his guests.
During the stay in Rishikesh were written by the Beatles numerous songs, most of which then merged into the “white album” recorded between March and October of ’68.
Conclusion
Overall, The Beatles in India is a fascinating look at a pivotal moment in the band’s career and personal lives. The documentary provides insight into the creative process behind one of their most acclaimed albums and the impact that India had on their music and personal philosophies. It is a must-watch for fans of The Beatles and anyone interested in the intersection of music, culture, and spirituality.
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