Thajudeen Aliyar Kunju from Kerala to head home after 40 years in Saudi Arabia with life-changing win
After four decades of hard work in Saudi Arabia, Indian expat Thajudeen Aliyar Kunju is returning to Kerala a millionaire, thanks to a Dh25 million Big Ticket jackpot win in Abu Dhabi. The 61-year-old, who landed in the Gulf in 1985 with nothing but determination, is now preparing for a well-earned homecoming — and planning to share his fortune with 16 families and a charity, reported gulfnews.com.
From desert farmhand to millionaire: Kunju’s inspiring Gulf journey ends on a high note
Speaking from Hail in Saudi Arabia, Kunju reflected on the humble beginnings that shaped his life. “I was my mother’s only child. There was no guidance, no money — just hope,” he said. His first job was on a farm, and over the years, he worked his way up to running a waterproofing and transport business.
Despite his long stint in the Gulf, Kunju had only recently started playing the Big Ticket raffle. In just his fifth attempt, he struck gold — quite literally — but not alone. He had formed a group of 16 expat families to share the cost and the prize. Most of the group members hail from Kerala, with one from Tamil Nadu.
“We all started with nothing,” he said. “Many of us faced business losses and still don’t own homes back home. This win gives us all a fresh start.”
In a heartwarming gesture, the group had agreed from the start to donate one share of the prize money to charity if they won — bringing the total to 17 equal shares. “That was a non-negotiable part of the deal,” Kunju confirmed.
The prize announcement initially caused confusion, as the hosts assumed Kunju was in India due to the Indian number he had provided. “I’m going back soon, so I didn’t use my Saudi number,” he explained. His wife initially ignored the winning call, thinking it was a scam.
Looking ahead, Kunju hopes to spend more time with his family in Thiruvananthapuram, possibly start a new business, and maybe even continue participating in Big Ticket raffles — from Kerala.
“After 40 years, it’s hard to say goodbye completely,” he laughed. “But this win gives all of us — 16 families — a second chance.”
