UAE’s only Dh100 million lottery winner: What he bought with the jackpot one year later

A year after winning the UAE’s Dh100 million lottery jackpot, Anilkumar Bolla has invested in property in the UAE and India, purchased cars for himself and his brother, gifted gold jewellery to his mother and farmland to his father, and travelled to several destinations.

However, Bolla says his biggest reward has been the freedom to spend quality time with his family.

“The most important thing is that I am spending quality time with my family,” he said.

Family Remains His Top Priority

One of Bolla’s first decisions after winning the jackpot was to fulfil his mother’s long-held wish for gold jewellery. He bought her a gold necklace, several rings and bangles.

“It was her dream to have a few ornaments, so I brought it all together and gifted it to her,” he said.

The gift brought tears of joy to his mother’s eyes.

Despite his newfound wealth, Bolla’s family continues to live in the same house in India, which he describes as his father’s dream home. He also gifted his father farmland so he could pursue his interest in organic farming.

“My happiness is always linked to my family,” Bolla said, adding that supporting his loved ones brings him greater happiness than spending money on himself.

Property Investments and Future Business Plans

Since winning the jackpot, Bolla has purchased properties in both the UAE and India as part of his long-term financial plans. He has also bought cars for himself and his brother.

Beyond these purchases, he is exploring potential business opportunities and considering starting a business.

The UAE remains central to his future plans, while he intends to maintain close connections with India.

“I have fulfilled some of my dreams, and there are still others I want to achieve in the future,” he said.

Travel and New Experiences After the Win

Over the past year, Bolla has travelled to different destinations and enjoyed new experiences with friends and family.

While the initial excitement of winning the Dh100 million jackpot has gradually faded, he remains grateful for the opportunities the money has provided.

“Somehow, the excitement has faded, but I am truly grateful for the opportunities I have and the things I do,” he said.

When asked to describe the past year in one word, Bolla chose “transformative”.

“Winning the lottery changed the course of my life and reshaped my ambitions too,” he said.

Unexpected Attention After Winning Dh100 Million

The jackpot win has also brought Bolla unexpected public attention. People sometimes recognise him and approach him after realising that he is the UAE’s Dh100 million lottery winner.

A year after the life-changing win, however, his focus has shifted towards achieving his future goals rather than the attention surrounding his prize.

Bolla’s Advice to Other Lottery Winners

Reflecting on his experience, Bolla offered advice to others who might win a large lottery prize. He emphasised the importance of humility, financial discipline and responsible money management.

“Welcome to the millionaires’ club. Stay humble, manage your money well, and spend it wisely and with discipline,” he said.

For Bolla, the past year has been about more than financial success. Supporting his family, fulfilling their dreams and planning for the future have become the most meaningful parts of his journey after winning the Dh100 million jackpot.