Exploring Rishikesh: The Beatles’ Indian White Album Story
Artist Kerwin Blackburn visited India’s holy city of Rishikesh in 2016 and explored the “Beatles Ashram” where the Fab Four wrote The White Album in 1968
Welcome to my blog post about Rishikesh, India, and its connection to The Beatles. In 2016, I visited this historic, captivating holy city, located on the banks of the River Ganges, and retraced the steps of the iconic band during their 1968 visit.
As a big Beatles fan, I chose the Fab Four as the first painting of my By Kerwin pop art painting collection. The chance to visit the same place that The Beatles visited for their meditation retreat in India was therefore an exciting, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Rishikesh, set in the foot of the Himalayas, was a special place for the Beatles, influencing the creation of their famous White Album. Join me in exploring the significance of Rishikesh, the Beatles’ time there, my visit to the “Beatles Ashram”, and how it inspired their music.
The Beatles visited Rishikesh in 1968 to study Transcendental Meditation with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. During their serene stay in Rishikesh, The Beatles sought spiritual growth and inspiration. Their retreat inspired many tracks on the White Album, such as “Dear Prudence” and “Mother Nature’s Son”.
This article is a journey into the history and link between The Beatles and Indian culture that I’m excited to share with you.
When Did The Beatles Go To India?
In early 1968, The Beatles embarked on a transformative journey to India, seeking respite from the demands of fame and exploring spirituality. Arriving in Rishikesh in February, they settled at the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram, also known as the Beatles ashram, located on the banks of the Ganges River.
Their stay extended over several weeks, stretching from February to April 1968. This proved to be a pivotal period for the direction of the band. This duration allowed the band members – John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr – to immerse themselves in transcendental meditation and absorb the serene surroundings.
The Beatles’ retreat to Rishikesh profoundly impacted their creative energies, inspiring the writing of numerous songs that would later feature prominently on The White Album. Their 1968 Indian visit sparked the convergence of the Beatles’ musical prowess with the spiritual ambiance of Rishikesh, leaving a lasting mark on the history of both Western music and the Indian city itself.t
Where did The Beatles stay in India?
The Beatles visited Rishikesh in 1968 to study Transcendental Meditation with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. During their serene stay in Rishikesh, The Beatles sought spiritual growth and inspiration. Their retreat inspired many tracks on the White Album, such as “Dear Prudence” and “Mother Nature’s Son”.
The Beatles sought solace in Rishikesh, at the ashram of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi (which is now colloquially known as the “Beatles ashram”). Situated on the banks of the Ganges River, the ashram offered an idyllic retreat for the band in 1968. The secluded surroundings and simplistic yet comfortable accommodations allowed the musicians to delve into meditation and foster their inner creativity.
As intended, much of their stay at the ashram saw the band members in good spirits and contained light-hearted moments. Stories of shared laughter, songwriting sessions, and the camaraderie that blossomed amid the serene ambiance, all contributed to the magical atmosphere that influenced the genesis of The White Album.
Where is Rishikesh?
Located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India, Rishikesh is a serene town situated at the foothills of the majestic Himalayas. Embraced by the spiritual aura of the region, it lies on the banks of the sacred Ganges River. The town serves as a gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
Rishikesh is renowned for its spiritual significance, yoga retreats, and the tranquil ambiance that draws seekers and travellers alike. The convergence of the Ganges and the Himalayas makes Rishikesh not only a geographical marvel but also a haven for spiritual exploration and self-discovery.
Why is Rishikesh famous?
Renowned as the “Yoga Capital of the World,” Rishikesh holds profound historical and cultural significance. Situated on the banks of the Ganges, this sacred town has been a spiritual haven for centuries, attracting sages, saints, and seekers in search of enlightenment.
Rishikesh is steeped in ancient traditions and is a gateway to the Himalayas, fostering an atmosphere conducive to meditation and self-discovery. Its fame as a yoga hub is rooted in the presence of numerous ashrams and the transcendent energy of the region. The resonating chants, the flowing Ganges, and the panoramic landscapes contribute to the allure that makes Rishikesh a revered destination for those seeking spiritual awakening and holistic well-being.
The Beatles’ visit to Rishikesh in 1968 – and the accompanying media coverage – significantly elevated the town’s global profile further, making it synonymous with spiritual retreat and musical and creative inspiration. The presence of the world-famous band at the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram drew international attention to Rishikesh as a hub for transcendental meditation and spiritual exploration.
Why did The Beatles go to Rishikesh in India?
The Beatles embarked on their transformative journey to Rishikesh in 1968 driven by a quest for spiritual exploration and creative rejuvenation. Intrigued by the teachings of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the band sought solace and a break from their hectic lives in the West.
It was George Harrison that convinced the other members of The Beatles to meet the now-infamous Maharishi Mahesh Yogi at his conference on Transcendental Meditation in North Wales in 1967. From this meeting, the Fab Four decided to embark pilgrimage to the holy city of Rishikesh the following year, and immersive themselves in the practices of meditation and Indian spirituality.
Rishikesh, nestled in the Himalayan foothills, became the backdrop for their pursuit of transcendental meditation. The serene ambiance and the spiritual guidance of Maharishi appealed to The Beatles’ collective yearning for inner peace. Their time in Rishikesh marked a pivotal chapter in their lives, fostering personal growth and influencing their musical endeavours, as they sought inspiration and a deeper connection to spirituality amidst the tranquil surroundings of this Indian retreat.
Rishikesh also served as a creative haven that sparked a prolific period of songwriting; inspiring many compositions that formed the basis of their “White Album” release later in 1968.
Which songs did The Beatles write in Rishikesh? Exploring the inspiration behind The White Album
During their retreat in Rishikesh, The Beatles prolifically composed a multitude of songs that would later find a place on The White Album. This creative surge stemmed from the tranquil surroundings and the contemplative atmosphere of the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram.
Notable compositions included “Dear Prudence,” inspired by Mia Farrow’s sister Prudence, who secluded herself during meditation. “I’m So Tired” was written by Lennon after he struggled to sleep due to constant meditation there. “Revolution”, ‘Cry Baby Cry”, “Blackbird”, “I Will”, “Julia”, “Long, Long, Long”, “Mother Nature’s Song” and “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da” were other notable songs written in Rishikesh.
In total, at least 30 songs were written by The Beatles in Rishikesh, making up 19 of the 30 songs that featured on the White Album. Many other songs made it onto other Beatles albums and solo releases in later years.
The serene Ganges and the Himalayan backdrop infused their songwriting with a unique energy, capturing the essence of their spiritual exploration. Rishikesh not only served as a muse but also as a transformative retreat that catalysed the creation of timeless music, forever linking the town to The Beatles’ artistic evolution and the ethereal sounds of The White Album.
Why was it called The White Album?
Surprisingly, “The White Album” isn’t actually the album’s official name – it doesn’t have a title. This untitled album is officially charted as “The Beatles”, yet it soon became known the world over as The White Album.
The enigmatic, yet colloquial, title “The White Album” reflects The Beatles’ eighth studio album’s minimalistic design – its cover is entirely white. This artistic choice, both radical and symbolic, represents a blank canvas inviting listeners to project their interpretations onto the music.
The absence of traditional cover art was deliberate, mirroring the band’s shift towards simplicity and individuality. It also stood in stark contrast to the iconic, packed artwork of their 1967 album “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band”.
The double LP’s plain exterior was a metaphor for the eclectic array of musical styles within it (spanning folk, rock, country, blues, and more), offering a sonic journey that transcends conventional boundaries. The White Album’s design encapsulates The Beatles’ experimental spirit, inviting audiences to explore the diverse soundscape within, free from preconceived notions or visual cues.
Is The Beatles’ Ashram in Rishikesh still there today? Can you visit the Beatles Ashram?
The ashram where The Beatles stayed, known as Chaurasi Kutia, was abandoned in the 1990s and feel into disrepair. Today, the disused and derelict ashram in Rishikesh stands as a living testament to its iconic past. Renamed the “Beatles Ashram,” it has been transformed into an art haven, where vibrant murals and graffiti pay homage to the legendary band.
The ashram, once a retreat for meditation, now attracts artists who draw inspiration from the Beatles’ legacy. Visitors are free to wander up the hill to its entrance and can explore the site of The Beatle’s 1968 retreat, and the remnants of the band’s creative space.
The walls of many of the ashram’s buildings are adorned with psychedelic art creating a harmonious fusion of music and visual expression. The Beatles ashram has evolved into a cultural landmark, inviting enthusiasts to relive the magic of the band amid a kaleidoscope of artistic interpretations.
Kerwin’s Visit to the Beatles Ashram, Rishikesh, July 2016
I was lucky enough to be able to visit and explore the Beatles Ashram during my visit to India and Rishikesh in July 2016. I was with three others from my group – it was just the four of us in the huge 14-acre site in the jungle 150 metres above the River Ganges. An incredible, surreal, serene experience.
There were absolutely no restrictions so we were able to freely explore and wander into the different stone meditation huts, accommodation buildings and other amenity buildings, including meditation areas and the main halls. The main hall area is the central site where the walls are filled with graffiti and murals inspired by The Beatles and Indian spirituality (although there is Beatles graffiti on walls everywhere throughout the ashram).
I’ve since seen much footage on YouTube and in the Beatles “Get Back” film of them at the ashram in Rishikesh, and I can recognise many spots from my visit. Mine was a bit of a surprise visit, too – I didn’t know exactly where it was and that we’d be able to actually get in – which added to the uniqueness of the visit. It remains one of the absolutely coolest places I’ve ever been lucky enough to go to.
Conclusion
In the heart of Rishikesh, where the Ganges whispers and the Himalayas stand sentinel, The Beatles’ transcendental journey continues to resonate. Their 1968 visit left a lasting mark on both Rishikesh, The Beatle’s musical direction, and Western music in general.
Today, the Beatles ashram stands not just as a relic but as a dynamic canvas of creativity. As I reflect on my own visit to India, the echoes of Rishikesh persist. ‘The Beatles in India’ is my favourite era of The Beatles. It was a fascinating period that weaved together Indian culture, Eastern spirituality, music, and art.
The Beatles was the first painting of my By Kerwin pop art portrait collection, so I was excited to create my own artistic tribute to the band in my signature style. View this and shop prints of The Beatles in my online shop.
I’ve also painted George Harrison in a striking, floral-inspired portrait. View this painting and shop prints here – and you can also read about how his love of gardening and nature inspired my use of flowers in this painting here.
Did you know the story of The Beatles in India? Explore the rest of my music icon pop art paintings and shop prints in my online shop at www.bykerwin.com
Visit my online blog to learn more about music and pop art, here.
My full range of Jackson Pollock-inspired acrylic paintings can be viewed at www.bykerwin.com – the originals and prints of these are available to purchase, with worldwide delivery. You can follow my art progress on Instagram and Facebook.
