Indian Expat in Sharjah Wins Dh25 Million in Big Ticket Draw After 100 Attempts

Ashik Patinharath, an Indian expatriate who has lived in Sharjah for 19 years, has struck gold by winning the Dh25 million grand prize in Big Ticket’s series 271 draw held in Abu Dhabi. The 38-year-old, originally from Kerala, has been purchasing tickets for the past 10 years, making nearly 100 attempts before finally winning—this time without having to share the jackpot.

“It still feels unreal,” Patinharath told Gulf News. “I’ve been trying for a decade, always buying tickets on my own. This is my first-ever win.”

This time, he had six tickets in the draw and won with ticket number 456808, purchased online on January 29. “Big Ticket had a special offer last month—six tickets for Dh1,000. One of them turned out to be my lucky charm.”

A Life-Changing Moment

Patinharath, who manages properties in the real estate sector, was initially skeptical when hosts Richard and Bouchra called to inform him of his win.

“I was on a call with my family back home in Kozhikode when I got another call from Big Ticket. Being in real estate, I’m always cautious about scams, so I was doubtful at first,” he admitted.

Now, with Dh25 million at his disposal, Patinharath plans to expand his real estate business and fulfill his long-held aspirations.

A Dream Come True

His wife, three children, two sisters, and parents are overjoyed by his incredible win. “I’ve always dreamed of growing in the real estate sector, and now I have the means to make it happen,” he said.