Desire is the first enemy because it appears harmless. It begins as longing, attraction, pleasure. But unchecked, Kāma becomes obsession—the endless hunger that convinces us: • I will be complete when I possess… • I will be happy when I experience… Bhaja Govindam on Lust and Attachment Shankaracharya exposes desire as transactional. Sanskrit Verse यावद्वित्तोपार्जनसक्तः तावन्निजपरिवारो रक्तः। पश्चाज्जीवति जर्जरदेहे वार्तां कोऽपि न पृच्छति गेहे॥ Meaning As long as one pursues wealth and pleasure, family surrounds him with affection. When the body becomes old and weak, no one even asks about him. Commentary Shankara does not condemn family. He condemns attachment built on desire and usefulness. Lust is not only sexual—it is the craving for validation, belonging, and possession. Time reveals its fragility. --- Kabir on Desire as Bondage Kabir's language is blunt: as long as desire remains, freedom is impossible. Hindi Verse काम क्रोध मद लोभ की, जब लग देही साथ। तब लग पंडित मूरखो, दोनों एकहि बात॥ Commentary Kabir collapses all social distinction. Scholar or fool—if lust and greed remain, both are equally bound. True wisdom is not knowledge. It is freedom from compulsion. --- Vemana on Desire and Liberation Vemana brings the teaching into daily psychology. Telugu Verse ఆశయే బంధము, ఆశయే ముక్తి; ఆశ విడిచిన నాడే ఆత్మానుభూతి. Meaning Desire itself is bondage. The moment desire loosens, liberation dawns. Commentary Vemana's insight is subtle: the same energy that binds can liberate when redirected inward. Desire becomes devotion when freed from ego.