Who is Manu Mohanan? Meet the Dh30 million Big Ticket winner
Bahrain-based Indian nurse celebrates jackpot win with a century on the cricket field
Indian expat Manu Mohanan, a nurse residing in Bahrain, has become an overnight sensation after winning the Dh30 million grand prize in Abu Dhabi’s first Big Ticket draw of 2025.
Originally from Kerala, Mohanan, 33, was on a night shift when Big Ticket hosts Richard and Bouchra announced his life-changing win. “I still can’t believe it. It feels surreal,” Mohanan said after finishing his shift and heading straight to a cricket match. “I scored 141 runs and helped my team win both matches. Cricket is my first love, and this win makes it even sweeter.”
Cricket has been a constant in Mohanan’s life, even after the win. “I celebrated by playing cricket because it’s my passion. It reminds me of my roots and keeps me connected to my friends,” he said.
Mohanan is a prominent player for Flying Fighters Cricket Club. He has made significant contributions to the team, playing as a right-arm medium pace bowler and a right-hand batsman. Over 600 matches played in his career, Mohanan has amassed more than 13,000 runs and taken over 500 wickets.
21 nurses, one jackpot
Mohanan wasn’t alone in his triumph. The jackpot will be shared among 21 Kerala-born nurses working in Bahrain. For years, the group pooled resources to buy tickets, stopping briefly last year before resuming at the insistence of Mohanan’s roommate, Sony.
“Sony convinced us to try again,” Mohanan shared. “We purchased tickets under the ‘Buy 2, Get 4 Free’ promotion. Ironically, it was one of the free tickets – number 535948 – that won us Dh30 million.”
The group plans to use the money to pay off debts and support their families back home. Despite their newfound wealth, the nurses have no plans to quit their jobs. “We’ve worked hard to be where we are. Nursing is our passion,” Mohanan said. “We’ll remain grounded, pay off debts, and live simple lives. But we’ll keep trying our luck in future draws.”
Baby boy brings luck
Mohanan’s recent milestones include becoming a father four months ago. “My baby boy has brought immense luck,” he said. “It’s been an unforgettable year. My family has been with me in Bahrain for just over a year, and this win means we can now secure our future.”
Big Ticket
Running for over three decades, Big Ticket remains a popular lottery among UAE residents and expats, symbolising hope and opportunity. As the buzz continues, January’s upcoming draw is set to offer a Dh25 million grand prize, along with weekly Dh1 million giveaways.