Jal Jhulni Ekadasi, also known as Jal Jhilani or Jal Jhulani Gyaras, is observed on the 11th day of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon) in Bhadrapad month in Gujarat. Jal Jhilani Ekadashi 2025 date is September 3. This Ekadasi is popularly known as Parivartini Ekadasi. This particular name of Jal Zilani, or Jal Jilni, is widely used in Gujarat and by the Swaminarayan Sect. It is also known as Dol Gyaras Ekadasi in Rajasthan and is of great significance in many temples in Rajasthan.
Legend has it that Lord Vishnu who is sleeping during the Chaturmas period turned sideways from his supine position on Jal Jhilani Ekadashi day.
Another legend associated with the day is that Lord Krishna took the Gopis in Vrindavan for boating and in return demanded yoghurt. So people donate and share yoghurt on the day.
Jal Jhulni Ekadasi Mantra
ॐ विश्वात्मने नमः॥
Om Vishwatmane Namah
Meaning of "Jal Jhilani" / "Jal Jhulani"
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"Jal" = water
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"Jhilani" or "Jhulani" = to swing or rock (usually in a cradle or boat)
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So, "Jal Jhilani" means rocking or swinging the deity on water — often done in a boat.
Devotion and Celebration:
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Devotees take the idol of Lord Krishna or Vishnu in a palanquin to a lake or river, place it in a beautifully decorated boat, and rock it gently while singing devotional songs (bhajans).
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It signifies serving and celebrating God even while he is in rest.
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In many temples, especially in the Swaminarayan Sampradaya, this day is celebrated with great pomp, involving processions, devotional music, and ceremonial boat rides (Jal Yatra) for the deities
Spiritual Meaning
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Water symbolizes purity and devotion, and swinging the deity in water is an expression of love, joy, and surrender.
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It’s a reminder to keep serving and celebrating the divine, even when there’s no active "action" — as God is present always, even in stillness.
Some devotees observe a strict fasting on the day. They do not take water. But most devotees observe the usual rules associated with Ekadasi fasting on the day.
As part of puja on the day, an idol of Lord Krishna is taken to a lake or river and worshipped. The idol is also taken on a boat ride on the river. Some people also carry the Ganesha idol installed as part of Ganesh Chaturthi festival and immerse it on the day in a lake or river.
It must be noted that Ganesh Chaturthi festival begins five days before Jal Zilani Ekadashi. Therefore some people immerse Lord Ganesha on this day.
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