Indian Expat Wins Gold Bar After 30 Years in UAE
After years of participating in various lottery draws, one Indian expat in the UAE has finally achieved a long-awaited victory. Nagarajan Venkataraman, a resident of Abu Dhabi for over 30 years, recently won a 250g 24K gold bar in the Big Ticket weekly e-draw, marking a significant milestone in his life.
A Surprising Call
When Nagarajan received the winning call from show host Richard, he was initially skeptical. Having spent years receiving sales calls, he was taken aback by the unexpected news. “You are Richard, isn’t it? I do recognize your voice, but this is the first time I am getting a call from you,” he remarked, expressing disbelief at his win. His winning ticket number was 241818, and the moment was surreal for him.
A Sweet Victory
The win was particularly gratifying for Nagarajan due to a playful banter with his wife. “My wife keeps telling me, ‘You will never win,’” he shared with a laugh. He often counters her skepticism by saying, “You have to give luck a chance. If you don’t try, you will never know whether you are lucky or not.” He eagerly anticipated sharing the good news with her, knowing it would be a delightful surprise.
A Journey Through Time
Nagarajan moved to the UAE in 1994, a time when navigating the region was far more challenging without modern technology. “When I first came to Abu Dhabi, I didn’t even know where it was,” he recalled. He and his wife had to consult an atlas to find their way, as cities like Dubai and Sharjah were more familiar to them. Over the years, Abu Dhabi has become his home, and he has embraced the changes that have come with it.
Looking Ahead
Despite finally hitting the jackpot, Nagarajan is not ready to stop playing. “I buy almost every month,” he stated, expressing his desire to continue trying his luck. He plans to purchase more tickets for the upcoming Dh25 million grand prize draw scheduled for November 3, hoping for another stroke of luck.
FAQs
How long has Nagarajan lived in the UAE?
Nagarajan has lived in the UAE for over 30 years, having moved there in 1994.
What did Nagarajan win in the Big Ticket draw?
He won a 250g 24K gold bar, which he received during the Big Ticket weekly e-draw.
What is Nagarajan’s plan after winning?
He intends to continue participating in the Big Ticket draws and plans to buy more tickets for the next grand prize draw.
Conclusion
Nagarajan Venkataraman’s story is a testament to perseverance and hope. After three decades of trying his luck, he finally won a significant prize, turning a long-standing joke with his wife into a moment of joy. As he looks forward to future draws, his experience serves as an encouragement for others to keep trying their luck.
Nagarajan’s win comes at a time when the UAE has seen a surge in interest in lottery draws and other forms of gaming. The Big Ticket draw, in particular, has gained popularity among residents and expatriates alike, offering substantial prizes that attract a diverse participant base. Many see these draws as not only a chance to win life-changing amounts of money but also as a form of entertainment that brings excitement to their routine lives.
Living in the UAE for over three decades, Nagarajan has witnessed the rapid development and transformation of the region. From its humble beginnings, the UAE has evolved into a global hub for business and tourism, attracting millions of expatriates. This diverse environment has allowed Nagarajan to build a life and community, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the nation. His story reflects the aspirations of many expatriates who seek opportunities and strive for success in their adopted homeland.
As Nagarajan prepares for the next draw, he joins a growing community of hopeful participants who share similar dreams of winning. The anticipation surrounding these events often fosters camaraderie among players, as they discuss their strategies and experiences. For Nagarajan, this win not only validates his long-standing belief in luck but also reinforces the idea that persistence can lead to unexpected rewards.
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