Netflix’s Wild Wild Country: A journey into the heart of the Rajneesh movement
By Deepak Kumar
Wild Wild Country is a Netflix documentary series that tells the story of the controversial Indian guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, also known as Osho, and his community of followers in the Rajneeshpuram community located in Wasco County, Oregon, USA. The series revolves around Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, his one-time personal assistant Ma Anand Sheela, and their followers who created a commune in rural Oregon in the 1980s.
The series was released on Netflix on March 16, 2018, after premiering at the Sundance Film Festival. It garnered widespread attention for its portrayal of the Rajneeshpuram community and its controversial actions, including attempts to take over the local government and allegations of bioterrorism.
The title of the series, Wild Wild Country, is drawn from the Bill Callahan song Drover, which is prominently featured in the final episode. The title also echoes the comments of Jane Stork, also known as Ma Shanti B, about her first impressions of the ranch.
In the beginning of episode 2, she describes it as wild, rugged, but vast—really wild country.
The series is divided into 6 episodes, each about an hour long and covers the rise and fall of the Rajneeshpuram community. The first episode introduces viewers to Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh and his teachings, as well as the establishment of the commune in Oregon.
Subsequent episodes delve deeper into the conflicts between the Rajneeshpuram community and the local government, as well as internal power struggles within the community. Throughout the series, viewers are introduced to various members of the Rajneeshpuram community, including Ma Anand Sheela, who served as Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh’s personal assistant and spokesperson.
Sheela is a central figure in the series and her actions, including allegations of attempted murder and bioterrorism, are explored in depth. Wild Wild Country received critical acclaim for its thorough and unbiased portrayal of the Rajneeshpuram community.
It was praised for its use of archival footage and interviews with key players in the story, as well as its exploration of the complexities of religious cults and their impact on society. Overall, Wild Wild Country is a fascinating and thought-provoking documentary series that sheds light on a little-known chapter of American history.
It raises important questions about power, religion and the relationship between communities and governments.
Next. 10 Must-Watch TV Shows similar to Pakistani television drama Red Rose. dark
What do you think of Netflix’s Wild Wild Country? Let us know your answers and opinions in the comments below!