Madhyashtami is observed annually during the Mahalayam fortnight which falls before Ashwin Navratri (September – October). It is an important day during at Gaya. This fortnight is popularly known as Pitru Paksha Shradh. Madhyashtami 2024 date is September 25. This day is chosen by those people who do not perform paksha mahalyam – rituals on all 15 days.
Observing one day Shradham is known as Sakrun Mahalayam.
Sakrun Mahalayam is in addition to the Amavasya Shradh, 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.