In Dwapar Yug, Bhagwan Shree Krishna performed Danlila (tax collection) in Gokul. Under the orders of King Kansa (the King of Mathura), Gop-Gopikas had to pay more dan (tax) towards port charges when they had to go to places like Mathura to sell milk, curd, and butter. As a result, Bhagwan Shree Krishna sat in a boat and travelled upon the Yamuna River. When the gop-gopikas carrying dahi came to cross the river en route to Mathura, Shree Krishna personally asked them for dan, declaring that the people of Gokul had the first right to collect the tax.
Devotees observe a fast on Jal Jilani Ekadashi. The Vrat begins one day before (Shukla Paksha Dashami). Devotees eat a single melon that day and on next day, they observe a fast for 24 hours where they do not consume food or water. However, there is some relaxation for old devotees, sick devotees, and small children.
In the morning, after giving a bath to Bhagwan, He is adorned with colorful clothes and ornaments, specifically a flower of Kash (Saccharum spontaneum) and pumpkin in fruit. Thereafter, in the form of a grand procession, the Lord is carried in a divinely decorated palanquin (chariot) with drums and musical instruments throughout the village and taken to the river or lake shore.
There, in a decorated boat, the Bhagwan is worshipped and taken on a water voyage. Bhagwan is then bathed and worshipped in that water as if playing with gop-gopikas. On this occasion, it is a special honor to offer milk and rice to Bhagwan. Devotees are given a mixed prasad of saakar & cucumber. The fast is broken the next day (Dwadashi) after praying to Lord Vishnu and giving alms to Brahmins.
Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan has commanded to perform the vrat-utsav with faith and devotion. He had organized this festival with great fanfare in Gadhpur and in Ahmedabad. Thus, ‘Jal Jilani’ has prevailed to be celebrated in the Sampraday for over 200 years.
Jal Jilani also marks the halfway point of Chaturmas. On this day, it is said that Lord Vishnu turns from one side to another (parivartan) during his yogic sleep, which is why this day is also known as Parivartini Ekadashi.
