Etobicoke Man Wins 65 Million Lotto Max Jackpot and Dreams of Global Train Travel

A quiet evening turned into a life-changing moment for Mohit Sharma, a consultant from Etobicoke, when he scanned his Lotto Max ticket and saw the words: “Big Winner.” The 65 million Lotto Max jackpot ticket, purchased at Lakeshore Mini Mart, was from the Oct. 15, 2024 draw, making Sharma one of Ontario’s biggest lottery winners.

“I heard on the news that the winning ticket was sold in Etobicoke,” Sharma recalled. “Then it hit me—that person was me.”

From Pandemic Habit to Jackpot Surprise

Sharma began buying lottery tickets in 2020 during the pandemic. It became a weekly ritual to lift his spirits. He never picked his own numbers, always relying on the OLG Quick Pick option.

That routine finally paid off.

When he realized the winning ticket was his, Sharma turned off the stove mid-cooking and took a long walk to clear his head. He then re-scanned the ticket—just to be sure—and quietly began researching how to claim his prize.

A Family Celebration… with Walmart Champagne Glasses

Instead of immediately sharing the news, Sharma waited until his family returned from their travels. When they finally reunited, he gathered everyone for a heartfelt announcement.

“To say they were shocked is an understatement,” he said. “There were trembling hands and elevated heart rates all around.”

They toasted his win with champagne—but not before running to Walmart to buy proper glasses. “We finished the bottle together that night,” he added.

What He Plans to Do With $65 Million

With a professional team now helping him manage his finances, Sharma says his first priority is to care for his family and support causes close to his heart.

As a lifelong train enthusiast, Sharma is now planning to travel the world aboard some of its most famous railways:

• The Shinkansen (Japan) – One of the world’s fastest trains
• The Indian Pacific (Australia) – From Sydney to Perth
• The Orient Express – The legendary luxury train in Europe
• The Canadian – From Toronto to Vancouver
• The Caledonia Sleeper – A scenic ride across the U.K.
  

“This is what will excite me the most,” he said.

Sharma is also considering going back to school for another degree or diploma—just for the love of learning.

A Win Beyond Money

For Sharma, the best part of winning is the freedom.

“We don’t have to plan or save for holidays. If I want to travel, I can. If I want to buy something, I can.”

He hopes to give back in meaningful ways and explore the world—one iconic railway at a time.

What would you do first if you won the lottery? Travel the world or help your community? Let us know below.

More…

• https://globalnews.ca/news/11237667/big-winner-ontario-man-eyes-luxurious-train-ride-after-65m-lotto-max-win
• https://www.ctvnews.ca/northern-ontario/article/ontarios-newest-millionaire-won-65m-in-lottery-with-quick-picks
• https://toronto.citynews.ca/video/2025/06/12/i-couldnt-believe-it-65m-lotto-max-winner-on-his-newfound-luck 
• https://www.overheretoronto.com/another-lotto-max-jackpot-in-b-c-40m-ticket-sold-in-burnaby-just-days-after-record-win