After 15 years of unwavering persistence, Indian expatriate Venugopal Mullacheri has finally struck gold, winning a $1 million jackpot in Dubai Duty Free’s Millennium Millionaire draw. This life-changing victory not only marks the 500th draw in the promotion’s history but also makes Mullacheri the 249th Indian national to win the coveted prize.

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A Journey of Perseverance

Hailing from Kasaragod, Kerala, Mullacheri has been working as an IT support specialist in Ajman, UAE. For over 15 years, he consistently purchased tickets for the Dubai Duty Free draw, hoping for a change in fortune. His dedication paid off when ticket number 1163, bought at Terminal 2 Arrivals on April 23, was announced as the winning ticket in Series 500 of the draw. Mullacheri was watching the live draw on Dubai Duty Free’s Facebook page when he heard his name, leaving him in a state of disbelief.

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Overcoming Financial Hardships

The jackpot comes as a significant relief for Mullacheri, who had been grappling with substantial debts exacerbated by a betrayal from someone he trusted. He had recently built a house, further straining his financial situation. Describing the win as a “lifesaver,” Mullacheri expressed that the burden he carried for years seemed to vanish instantly upon hearing the news. He plans to use the prize money to clear his debts, take a well-deserved vacation with his family, and eventually start a business in the UAE, a country he holds dear.

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A Milestone for Dubai Duty Free

Mullacheri’s win is not just a personal triumph but also a significant milestone for Dubai Duty Free. The 500th draw was celebrated at Dubai International Airport’s Concourse B, attended by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Dubai Duty Free. The Millennium Millionaire promotion, launched in 1999, has transformed the lives of 500 winners from 53 countries, with Indian nationals being the most frequent recipients of the $1 million prize.

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Conclusion

Venugopal Mullacheri’s story is a testament to perseverance and hope. His 15-year journey culminated in a life-altering win, offering a fresh start and the opportunity to turn dreams into reality. As he embarks on this new chapter, Mullacheri’s experience serves as an inspiration to many, reminding us that persistence can indeed lead to extraordinary outcomes.

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