Answer

Yes, an apratyakhyāni kashāya can last for fifteen years.

In Jain karma theory, the maximum duration of apratyakhyāni kashāya is traditionally understood to be up to one full lifetime. Therefore, if a person lives with such a passion for fifteen years, it is possible.

Explanation

Jain Dharma describes four intensities of kashāya — anger, pride, deceit, and greed:

• Anantānubandhi kashāya – extremely intense passion
• Apratyakhyāni kashāya – passion that prevents partial vows
• Pratyakhyāni kashāya – passion that prevents complete vows
• Sañjvalana kashāya – subtle passion that remains even at higher spiritual stages

Apratyakhyāni kashāya is strong enough to stop the soul from accepting even partial restraint, such as the vows of a layperson. Its duration may continue for a long time if it is not weakened through right faith, repentance, self-discipline, and spiritual practice.

Spiritual Understanding

The important point is not only the number of years, but the spiritual damage caused by remaining under the influence of such passions. Jain Dharma teaches that passions bind karma and keep the soul away from restraint and purification.

Through practices such as:

• pratikraman
• ālochana
• forgiveness
• humility
• self-control
• guidance from a proper guru

the intensity of kashāya can gradually be reduced.

Takeaway

Yes, apratyakhyāni kashāya can last fifteen years, because its maximum duration may extend up to a lifetime. But spiritually, one should try to weaken it as soon as possible through awareness, repentance, and restraint.