John Lennon and George Harrison Leave Rishikesh

Friday 12 April 1968 | Travel, The Beatles

After nearly two months in Rishikesh, India, studying Transcendental Meditation under Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, John Lennon and George Harrison abruptly left the retreat on 12 April 1968.

Accompanying them were Cynthia Lennon, Pattie Harrison, and Alexis ‘Magic Alex’ Mardas. Their departure marked a decisive and controversial end to one of the most spiritually significant periods in The Beatles’ history.

The Maharishi Controversy

The group’s exit followed allegations — primarily raised by Magic Alex — that Maharishi Mahesh Yogi had behaved inappropriately towards female students at the camp. These claims created immediate tension and distrust.

“Without allowing the Maharishi an opportunity to defend himself, John and George chose to believe Alex and decided we must all leave.” — Cynthia Lennon

Although Cynthia Lennon later expressed doubts about the accusations, the damage had already been done. Lennon confronted the Maharishi directly before leaving:

“If you’re so cosmic, you’ll know why.” — John Lennon

A Sudden Departure

Transport was arranged quickly, with taxis taking the group to Delhi. Though they initially planned to stay overnight, they instead secured an immediate return flight to London.

The departure was chaotic, fuelled by paranoia and confusion, particularly from Mardas, who warned they might be prevented from leaving.

The Birth of ‘Sexy Sadie’

During the tense hours waiting to leave, Lennon began composing a song aimed at the Maharishi, initially titled “Maharishi, what have you done?”.

George Harrison advised Lennon to soften the approach, leading to the retitled track ‘Sexy Sadie’, which later appeared on The Beatles (The White Album) in 1968.

“You can’t say that, it’s ridiculous.” — George Harrison

Aftermath

Following their return to England, Lennon reunited with Yoko Ono, while Harrison chose to extend his stay in India, travelling south to Madras to spend time with Ravi Shankar.

The episode marked a turning point: while the Rishikesh retreat had been a period of prolific songwriting and spiritual exploration, its abrupt end introduced scepticism and fragmentation within the group.

Location

Also on This Day in Beatles History

• 12 April 1961 – The Beatles live at the Top Ten Club, Hamburg (12th night)
• 12 April 1962 – George Harrison and Brian Epstein fly to Hamburg for the Star-Club residency
• 12 April 1963 – The Beatles headline the Cavern Club Rhythm & Blues Marathon
• 12 April 1964 – The Beatles filming A Hard Day’s Night at Marylebone Station
• 12 April 1965 – The Beatles filming Help! at Twickenham Studios
• 12 April 1967 – Paul McCartney returns to England; Magical Mystery Tour conceived
• 12 April 1971 – Paul McCartney mixing the RAM album in Los Angeles
• 12 April 1990 – Paul McCartney live at Tampa Stadium

FAQ

Why did John Lennon and George Harrison leave Rishikesh?

Following allegations raised by Magic Alex that the Maharishi had behaved inappropriately, Lennon and Harrison chose to leave the retreat abruptly on 12 April 1968.

What song did Lennon write about the Maharishi?

‘Sexy Sadie’, originally titled ‘Maharishi, what have you done?’, which appeared on The White Album (1968).

Did George Harrison also leave on 12 April 1968?

Yes, though Harrison later returned to India independently to spend time with Ravi Shankar in Madras.

What happened to Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr?

McCartney and Starr had already left the retreat earlier — Ringo in March and McCartney in late March 1968.

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