A Dubai-based Indian expat has won Dh15 million in Abu Dhabi’s Big Ticket draw series 258, conducted during the UAE Union Day holidays. Ashish Moholkar bought the winning ticket, number 223090, on November 27. However, he was not watching the show live and was surprised to receive a call from the show host who broke the news to him.
Expressing his disbelief, Ashish asked, “I don’t believe you that I bought the ticket for Dh15 million. Am I really the winner?”
The hosts, including Richard, confirmed his victory, leaving Ashish astonished. Seeking reassurance, he repeatedly asked, “Is this real?” while the organisers continued to affirm that he was indeed the grand prize winner.
An account manager, Ashish purchased his Big Ticket after a two-year gap following his move back to the UAE from India. He bought his winning ticket online through the buy-two-get-one-free promotion, and, to his luck, the winning number was the free ticket.
When asked about his plans, Ashish said he would consult and discuss his options with his mother and wife, as his winning moment came as a complete shock.
During the live draw, ten lucky winners of Indian, Nepali and Palestinian nationalities were also announced, each taking home gold prizes worth Dh590,000. Milu Kurian won a brand-new Range Rover Velar, with ticket number 006898, which he bought online.
Throughout this month, anyone who purchases tickets for the upcoming live draw will have the chance to walk away with Dh20 million on January 3. Also, Big Ticket customers will be automatically entered into the weekly electronic draw, where one customer will be in with a chance to win the prize of Dh1 million every week.