The Mahavishnu Orchestra might be an early example of a jazz group with Indian influences as John McLaughlin at that time was a devotee of Sri Chinmoy. Others found the improvisational elements already in some Indian music to fit well with jazz.
The Mahavishnu Orchestra could be considered an early example of a jazz ensemble that incorporated elements of Indian music, influenced by John McLaughlin's devotion to Sri Chinmoy and the existing improvisational aspects found in certain Indian musical traditions.