During excavation work for the upcoming Simhastha 2028 Hindu pilgrimage in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, a large Shivalinga was unearthed near the Mahakaleshwar Temple complex. This discovery occurred while heavy machinery was clearing land for the temple's expansion project. Local priest Akash Sharma noted that the find coincided with the Bhasma Aarti, attracting many devotees who viewed the event as auspicious and offered prayers at the site. In response to the discovery, construction work has been slowed down to proceed with caution. The Madhya Pradesh government is overseeing preparations for Simhastha 2028, a significant religious gathering held every 12 years, and has approved 22 projects worth ₹2,923.84 crore to enhance infrastructure in Ujjain. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav emphasized the need for timely completion of all development works by Diwali 2027, ensuring that the infrastructure will benefit future events as well.