Nawada: A labourer from Bihar’s Nawada district has become an overnight millionaire after winning Rs 4 crore on the fantasy sports platform Dream11 during an Indian Premier League (IPL) match between Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings.
Mithun Kumar, a resident of Amipur village under the Mufassil police station area, had been playing Dream11 for the past seven years, often while juggling work at a brick kiln and as a truck helper. The win has catapulted him to local fame, with villagers flocking to his home to congratulate him.
Mithun’s sudden success has drawn both admiration and concern. His family, overwhelmed by the attention, has temporarily relocated him for his safety. “We are worried about how to protect such a large amount,” a family member said. “This is something we have never dealt with.”
His mother, Manjariya Devi, who raised her children after her husband’s death 15 years ago, initially opposed his participation in Dream11. “I thought he was wasting his money on gambling,” she admitted. “But when I found out he had won ₹4 crore, I couldn’t believe it.”
The win has effectively ended the family’s financial hardship, but it has also attracted public scrutiny. Crowds have gathered outside their modest home, prompting fears of theft or extortion. According to local reports, police have been alerted to monitor the situation.
Dream11, one of India’s most popular fantasy sports platforms, has grown exponentially during the IPL season, offering users cash prizes for creating virtual teams based on real-life cricket performances. While some players have seen their fortunes change, others have suffered losses, raising questions about addiction and regulation.
For Mithun Kumar and his family, the windfall is life-changing, but the days ahead will be as much about security and financial planning as they are about celebration.
