Pakkarkante, a resident of Abu Dhabi for 10 years, will share prize with 12 friends

Abu Dhabi: An Indian fisherman from Kerala, based in Abu Dhabi, has netted Dh150,000 in Big Ticket’s weekly e-draw.
Sulfeeker Pakkarkante, 39, couldn’t believe his ears when Big Ticket show host Richard called to deliver the good news. Amid the excitement, he misheard the winning amount and asked: “Is it Dh50,000?”
Richard corrected him: “No, it’s Dh150,000.”
A stunned Pakkarkante replied with joy: “I am very happy.”
Pakkarkante has been living in Abu Dhabi for 10 years and has been trying his luck in the draw for the past three years with a group of 12 friends.
He confirmed that the prize money would be equally shared among all. Their lucky ticket, number 174957, proved to be a big catch for the entire group.
In a light-hearted exchange, Richard asked if he was a good fisherman. Pakkarkante modestly replied, “Yes, I do fishing. Yes, I do.”
Pakkarkante is among three Indian expats who won in this week’s draw – all first-time winners. They are now in the running for the Dh25 million grand prize in the upcoming draw on July 3.
Despite the weekly e-draw win, he’s not stopping here. Pakkarkante said he will continue buying Big Tickets every month.