Madhyashtami is observed annually
during the Mahalaya fortnight which falls before Ashwayuja Navratri (September
– October). It is an important day during at Gaya. This fortnight is popularly
known as Pitru Paksha Shraaddha. This day is chosen by those people who do not
perform paksha mahalya – rituals on all 15 days.
Observing one day Shraaddha is
known as Sakrun Mahalaya.
Sakrun Mahalaya is in addition to
the Amavasya Shraaddha, which should be performed by all people. The importance
of Madhyashtami is that one need not worry about tithi, vara, Nakshatra and
other doshas and can perform the ritual.