After various documentaries tried to capture the life and beliefs of one of the most controversial, cult figures from India — Acharya Rajneesh, also known as Osho, a Hindi film has jumped on the bandwagon, too. Actor-MP Ravi Kishan will be seen in the lead role as Osho in a movie called Secrets of Love, directed by Ritesh S Kumar. The film is inspired by some of the important events of Rajneesh’s life, his philosophy and journey from being Rajneesh to Osho, global fame, his foundation, differences with the government and more.

Speaking to Bombay Times, Ravi Kishan says, “When you are asked to play the character of a cult personality who is not only controversial, but also has a massive following, the responsibility is a lot more. In order to portray the role as accurately as possible, I had to read many of his books and had to do a lot of research. I had my director by my side to help me out, so it was easy, but still, we were careful about everything and had proper research in place.”

The actor adds, “When I asked Ritesh why did he approach me for the role, he said that my eyes are very similar to his and he has seen the Osho getup on my photographs, which is very much like him. It was a good experience to play Osho. It’s intriguing how one could never interrupt his calm mind. Unka shaant chith bilkul akhandit tha.”

Osho and Ma Anand Sheela continue to intrigue filmmakers and actors

Acharya Rajneesh’s life story has always interested and intrigued filmmakers. His life came back in the spotlight with a documentary that focussed on the rise of the spiritual guru and the role of his personal secretary Ma Anand Sheela in the journey. In 2018, there were rumours that filmmaker Shakun Batra would be making a project based on the two. There was also buzz that Aamir Khan would be playing Osho, while Alia Bhatt would essay the role of Ma Anand Sheela. However, there was no official confirmation on the same.

During her appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show in 2019, Priyanka Chopra Jonas had revealed that she would be starring in Ma Anand Sheela’s biopic. She also said that the film would be directed by Rain Man director Barry Levinson. However, Ma Anand Sheela, in an interview, had said that she hasn’t given Priyanka permission for the biopic and had reportedly even sent the actress a legal notice.