A popular new Netflix documentary that tells the story of a cult leader in the 1980s who attracted thousands to a camp in Oregon, including busloads of homeless people from Chicago, brings back a flood of memories for the many who witnessed the odd events that unfolded 34 years ago.
Wild Wild County details how controversial Indian guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, described as a cult leader, built a "utopian city in the Oregon desert" causing conflict with locals to escalate into a national scandal, according to Netflix. The documentary aims to delve into the strange, but true tale that played out in the early 1980s.
The true crime series has captivated many, including those who witnessed it firsthand.
After watching hundreds leave Chicago for the promise of a better life, NBC 5 sent a reporter and crew to Oregon at the time to see what the desert community was all about. But what they saw was so odd, it still stands out nearly 34 years later.
"I really couldn't imagine what would attract people like this," former NBC 5 reporter Rich Samnuels said.
Footage from their journey showed thousands singing, dancing and worshipping Rajneesh, the guru who made daily appearances in a parade of Rolly-Royce vehicles.
"Lots of people, parades, free love, free love in the open," said NBC 5 photographer Paul Nagaro.
Local
Homeless people from Chicago willingly went on buses, but there were also lawyers, doctors and professionals joining in.
"It was pretty smart individuals and that was scary," Nagaro said.
The growing commune was heavily armed, but began to clash with nearby townspeople and elected officials.
"Portland can go to hell -- that's the most memorable line of the whole piece," Samuels said, reffering to a quote from Rajneesh's one-time assistant Ma Anand Sheela as clashes peaked.
Ultimately, the cult collapsed, but the rise and fall of the Rajneeshpuram still stands out in the minds of veteran reporters as it now plays out in living rooms across the country.
"It's still fascinating," Nagaro said.
Watch below to see NBC 5's series of reports as they aired in 1984. The series was titled "The Promised Land," but it turned out to be anything but.
[[482090421, C]]
[[482092531, C]]
[[482100062, C]]
[[482103732, C]]
