Sri Lanka’s Largest-Ever Lottery Jackpot of Rs. 63 Crore Claimed

Sri Lanka’s biggest lottery jackpot, exceeding Rs. 63 crore, has been claimed, officials announced on Friday.

A spokesperson for the Development Lotteries Board (DLB) confirmed that the winning ticket carried a prize of Rs. 629,855,919.60 — the highest payout ever recorded in the country’s lottery history.

The ticket was purchased in the Girandurukotte area of the Badulla District, according to officials speaking at a media briefing.

Authorities said the identity of the winner will be officially disclosed only after verification of the ticket’s authenticity and completion of all required legal and financial procedures, including standard compliance checks related to the payment.

Under existing regulations, the jackpot will be subject to a one-time tax of 14 percent.

The Development Lotteries Board, which has been operating for more than 40 years, currently conducts eight lottery draws daily. Revenue generated from ticket sales is transferred to the President’s Fund and used to support national development and social welfare initiatives.

According to the Board, lottery proceeds contribute to programs such as the Mahapola Higher Education Scholarship Trust Fund, healthcare services, cultural projects, social welfare schemes, and assistance for the families of war heroes.

Officials also announced that a new major cash prize draw will be launched starting Friday.