In a life-changing moment during Big Ticket Abu Dhabi’s February 3 live draw, Shanthanu Shettigar, an Indian expatriate residing in Oman, became the latest multi-millionaire after securing the Dh20 million grand prize. The 33-year-old retail professional from Karnataka, who has been participating in the raffle since 2021, purchased his winning ticket (number 305810) on January 20 in partnership with a single friend, meaning each will receive Dh10 million.
During the emotional live announcement, Shettigar expressed utter disbelief, stating: ‘Oh my God, seriously?.. Thank you!’ The shop-in-charge, who has lived in Oman for eight years, described being completely surprised by the win. ‘I knew the live draw was taking place tonight, but I never imagined my name would be announced. When I realized it was real, I was honestly speechless.’
The February draw created additional wealth across the region, awarding five consolation prizes of Dh1 million each to participants from India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. Notably, Jency Ruba and Desan Kunshu (both residing in India), Santosh Kumar (Abu Dhabi), Dulan Mayura (Dubai), and Mohammed Abu Syed (Al Ain) joined the millionaire ranks.
In secondary prizes, Shahin Miah, a Bangladeshi house driver from Sharjah, won a BMW X5 vehicle, while four participants from India and Bangladesh secured up to Dh150,000 in the Big Win contest. Kaushik Udeshi and Mohammed Touidul each claimed Dh150,000, with Udeshi planning a Vietnam trip and Touidul celebrating with friend Irfan’s assistance. Diana Princee, the only female contestant, won Dh150,000 with her husband’s remote guidance and intends to travel with her son.
The event was attended by January’s Dh30 million winner, Dubai-based Filipino expat Anna Lee Gayongan, who helped select the new grand prize winner. Big Ticket has announced a Dh15 million jackpot for February’s draw, scheduled for March 3, with additional weekly e-draws offering Dh50,000 prizes throughout the month.