File photo shows Deepak Chopra speaking at the Milken Institute Global Conference in Beverly Hills, Calif., on May 3, 2022. (Photo: Reuters)
Newly released Justice Department documents show that author and wellness figure Deepak Chopra maintained regular contact with Jeffrey Epstein for several years, even after Epstein’s past conviction became widely known.
Earlier this month, Chopra addressed the matter publicly, writing: “I was never involved in, nor did I participate in, any criminal or exploitative conduct. Any contact I had was limited and unrelated to abusive activity.”
However, a review of government records reveals hundreds of messages exchanged between the two men from 2016 to 2019. The correspondence suggests a closer relationship than previously understood.
Epstein faced arrest in 2019 on charges related to sex trafficking and abuse of underage girls. Authorities later dismissed the case following his death in custody. The newly released files shed light on his extensive social network, which included figures from entertainment, business and academia.
Visits and Warm Exchanges
Records indicate that Chopra visited Epstein at several locations, including a New York townhouse, a Florida residence and a Paris apartment. Emails and texts show frequent communication.
In some messages, Chopra signed off with “Love” or “XO” and once wrote, “I’m deeply grateful for our friendship.”
Chopra, who moved from India to the United States more than five decades ago to practice medicine, built a global following through books and public talks on health and spirituality. His spokesperson has not responded to requests for comment.
In a separate statement, Chopra expressed regret over certain exchanges. “I was deeply saddened by the suffering of the victims in this case,” he wrote. “Some past email exchanges have surfaced that reflect poor judgment in tone. I regret that and understand how they read today, given what was publicly known at the time.”
When approached about the matter, Chopra said simply: “No misconduct.”
Officials note that the appearance of someone’s name in the files does not prove wrongdoing.
Invitations and Controversial Messages
Some emails include invitations from Chopra asking Epstein to travel with him. In one 2017 message regarding a trip to Israel, Chopra wrote, “If you want use a fake name. Bring your girls.” He later added: “Your girls would love it as would you.” In another message about a workshop in Switzerland, he encouraged Epstein to attend “with your girls.”
The documents do not clarify whether Epstein accepted these invitations.
The correspondence also contains philosophical exchanges and personal remarks, some of which observers describe as troubling. In one text conversation, Epstein commented about Chopra “zero in on your prey,” to which Chopra replied: “I not a predator Just a lover.”
The age of the women referenced in these discussions remains unclear. In at least one instance, Chopra added, “(can’t talk about girls ).” The context surrounding that remark remains uncertain.
Business and Financial Links
The files also reveal financial and professional connections. In 2017, the Chopra Foundation received a $50,000 cheque from one of Epstein’s charitable organizations. Documents suggest the funds supported scientific research.
Epstein also discussed potential business ventures with Chopra, including a wellness app. Emails show plans for meetings to discuss the project and possible introductions to business contacts.
Support During Difficult Times
In early 2019, as legal pressure mounted on Epstein, Chopra sent him a supportive message. Later that year, Epstein referenced negative media coverage. Chopra replied: “Sorry I am not concerned about that.” He also advised Epstein to “Stay silent Meditate.”
The newly disclosed material adds further detail to Epstein’s wide-reaching relationships before his arrest. While the files reveal frequent communication and personal warmth between the two men, they do not establish criminal conduct on Chopra’s part.
The public release of the documents continues to draw attention as observers examine how Epstein maintained connections with high-profile individuals for years.
