Answer
One always progressed through the varnasrama system.
Even Arjuna himself functioned within the varnasrama system. In the end, did he fight the battle or not? He certainly did. The difference was his consciousness.
Initially, Arjuna wanted to avoid fighting. But after hearing Krishna's instructions, he surrendered and acted according to Krishna's desire.
Therefore, surrendering to Krishna does not mean abandoning the varnasrama system.
This is precisely why we refer to it as varnasrama-dharma, not merely varnasrama.
It is not simply a social structure.
A social scientist may admire the four social divisions and conclude that they form an excellent social organization. He may even scientifically demonstrate how efficient such a system is. But if he removes the essential principle of pleasing Lord Vishnu, the system ultimately fails.
The purpose of varnasrama-dharma is not merely social organization.
As I explained earlier, its real purpose is to awaken every individual to his eternal identity as a servant of God.
The process begins by learning to serve society with humility rather than trying to become its master. Through obedience, discipline, and a service attitude, one gradually realizes one's true constitutional position as the eternal servant of Krishna.
Thus, following varnasrama and surrendering to Krishna are not two separate paths. They complement one another.
