Answer
What Krishna describes is generally a gradual process, unfolding over many lifetimes. However, there is also an accelerated path. If one is fortunate, one comes in contact with a pure devotee—a genuine representative of Krishna—and thus begins sādhu-saṅga (association with devotees) and bhajana-kriyā (engagement in devotional practices).
We are filled with many anarthas—unwanted desires and impurities. Ordinarily, these would take many lifetimes to purify through a slow process. But through sādhu-saṅga and bhajana-kriyā, an accelerated path becomes available.
Even so, purification is still required. One must gradually become free from sinful reactions and sinful desires. Anartha-nivṛtti refers to the stage where these unwanted desires are cleansed. Krishna’s principle in the material world is: “As you desire, I will reciprocate.” If we desire to forget Him, He facilitates that forgetfulness. Therefore, unless our material desires are purified—unless the fire of those desires burning in the heart is extinguished—progress will be limited.
The effectiveness of anartha-nivṛtti is directly proportional to the intensity of one’s desire to be purified. If that desire is weak, the process remains slow. Even though one has access to an accelerated path, it is like sitting in a high-speed car without pressing the accelerator—or even pressing the brake. The potential is there, but it is not being utilized.
In fact, we often apply the brakes ourselves by holding on to material attachments. This is described as an offense to the holy name: to continue maintaining material desires even after receiving clear instructions about letting them go.
Thus, anartha-nivṛtti can become slow despite being on a fast track. Real progress depends on our sincerity and determination to become free from all unwanted desires.
