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Indian truck driver wins record $1.2M in Punjab lottery jackpot
Rajashree Seal
January 21, 2025
A 55-year-old truck driver from Barwa village in Nurpur Bedi, Punjab, India, has won the equivalent of $1.2 million (Rs 10 crore) in the Punjab State Dear Lohri Makar Sankranti Bumper-2025 lottery. This is said to be the highest prize ever offered in the state lottery’s history.
Singh, who works as a truck driver in Kuwait, purchased the winning ticket for Rs 500 ($6) while on holiday in India earlier this month. Speaking about his life-changing win, Harpinder expressed disbelief and gratitude. “It is by sheer grace of God that I have won such a big amount. I feel one should buy a ticket at least once in their lifetime,” he said.
For the past 15 years, Harpinder had been buying lottery tickets without success. This historic win comes at a time when his family was facing financial hardships. Harpinder had previously taken out loans to fund his move to Kuwait for work.
The family’s struggles were compounded by a tragic accident in 2023 that led to the amputation of his son Devinder Singh’s left arm. Devinder, who also suffered severe leg injuries, continues to experience mobility challenges. The prize money will enable the family to pay off debts, establish a business, and secure better medical treatment for Devinder.
“This money will help us clear our debts and build a secure future,” said Devinder. The family also plans to use a portion of the prize money to support charitable causes and help those in need.
Harpinder bought the ticket from a vendor at the Old Bus Stand in Nurpur Bedi. The vendor, Hemant Kakkar, will receive Rs 25 lakh ($30,000) as commission, while the sub-stockist gains Rs 5 lakh ($6,000). Kakkar shared his excitement, stating, “As the prize money gets bigger every year, more and more people are drawn to lotteries. But first, you need to have the courage to buy the Rs 500 ticket.”
The Punjab State Lotteries Department confirmed that 30% of the winnings would be deducted as tax. Even after deductions, the remaining amount will improve the family’s financial situation.
Barwa village, celebrated Singh’s win with enthusiasm, marking a moment of joy and hope for the community.
Gambling in India
India has a deep-rooted gambling tradition embedded in its cultural and social fabric. From the roll of dice in the Mahabharata, where a wager cost a princely clan its kingdom, to traditional bets on rooster fights and card games like rummy (considered a game of skill), gambling has long been a part of Indian life. Popular games such as teen patti (similar to poker) and matka (a lottery-like game) have been enjoyed across many states, and gambling is closely tied to festivals and social gatherings.
However, gambling in India remains controversial, with laws varying from state to state. While most states prohibit gambling, exceptions exist for lottery and horse racing.
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