The Beatles ashram, Rishikesh, and me One of many picturesque views in Rishikesh: Lakshman Jhula Table of Contents Did The Beatles visit to an ashram in India 50 years ago affect my destiny? In February 1968 — 50 years ago this year — The Beatles followed the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi to India to stay in his Rishikesh ashram (now known as The Beatles ashram). They wrote dozens of songs while in Rishikesh, including much of the White Album. The White Album was released 50 years ago this month (November), and I do remember it, and their visit to India. And I wonder if The Beatles’ visit to India had an effect on me that is still unfolding … Here comes the sun I’m writing this in my kitchen in Rishikesh. From a balcony off this room, I have a view across leafy green Yoga Niketan ashram to the Shivalik Mountains (the Lower Himalayas) and the sunrise. From the other balcony, off my living room, I can see the Ganga River as she leaves the mountains and begins her jou