A major discovery has been made in Ujjain, a big Shivalinga was uncovered during excavation activities in the area surrounding the complex of Mahakaleshwar Temple. The location was found during the ongoing construction and expansion efforts that were underway in anticipation of Simhastha 2028, which is one of the biggest Hindu pilgrimage events that are organized after every 12 years on the banks of the Kshipra River.
The Shivalinga was found when the heavy machinery was being employed to clear the land around the prepaid booth inside the temple grounds. After the finding, the authorities suspended all construction activities immediately and started working there carefully in order not to cause any disturbance to the site and any other artefacts.
Temple priest Akash Sharma said that the Shivalinga was discovered at a spiritually opportune time as the temple was in the process of conducting the Bhasma Aarti. The discovery time attracted masses of followers with many of them flocking the site to pray and carry out rituals because they found it very auspicious.
Assistant administrator Ashish Phalwadiya said that authorities are keeping a keen eye on the site and would take necessary actions in case of more discovery of historical or religious objects. He pointed out that the work is currently being done with caution in order to maintain any possible elements of heritage.
Simhastha 2028 will be drawing millions of pilgrims and there are plans to improve infrastructure and facilities. The government has been instructed to have all development activities done before Diwali 2027 so that the mega religious event can be smoothly done.