In a dramatic episode from the early 1980s, spiritual leader Osho reportedly lost his composure after filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt publicly insulted him by breaking a maala (prayer bead necklace) and tossing it into a washroom. The sight of this act deeply offended Osho’s followers and shocked the film community—but actor Vinod Khanna stood firmly in defense of the guru.
The Confrontation
Mahesh Bhatt, then an emerging director, had introduced Vinod Khanna to Osho’s Pune ashram. However, tensions arose during one intense gathering where Bhatt allegedly shattered Osho’s maala in anger and flung it toward the bathroom. According to sources, Osho was “angry” over Bhatt’s irreverence.
Khanna’s Stern Showdown
Witnessing the deed, Vinod Khanna confronted Bhatt, reportedly warning, “He will destroy you”—a pointed statement signalling that disrespecting Osho would provoke severe repercussions. Khanna’s action reinforced his loyalty to the spiritual leader, reflecting the era’s complex intersection of fame, faith, and loyalty.
Why It Still Resonates
- Bollywood’s Spiritual Bonds
The 1980s saw several celebrities drawn into Osho’s spiritual orbit—blurring lines between cinema and religious communities. The maala incident illustrates how deeply these connections ran. - Persona vs Principle
Mahesh Bhatt, known today for groundbreaking films tackling controversial subjects, was in his early career, navigating personal beliefs and artistic freedoms. This clash symbolized the tension between creative expression and spiritual reverence. - Vinod Khanna’s Dual Legacy
Once a top Bollywood star, Khanna later embraced Osho’s teachings and even served as a sitting BJP MP. His defense of Osho—while rooted in respect—also highlighted his deep integration into Osho’s philosophical world.
What Came After
Although the immediate fallout of the incident remained confidential within Osho’s circle, Bhatt continued his directorial ascent with acclaimed works like Saaransh (1984) and Arth (1982). Khanna maintained a delicate balance between commercial success and spiritual devotion—a journey that shaped how public figures later connect with spiritual leaders.
