Milan Rana, who lives in Plumstead, moved to the UK to join his family already living here as part of a campaign to allow Gurkha veterans to settle here.
The chef shared that he would use his winnings to help kickstart a new life ten years after arriving in London.
After winning the £250k grand prize, Milan thanked actress Dame Joanna Lumley, who spearheaded the campaign, for giving his family the chance of a fresh start.
Lucky Londoner wins £250k in People’s Postcode Lottery
Reacting to his win, Milan said: “I want to buy a house and have a nice and peaceful life.
“I wanted a nice house to live together with my mum and dad and my family. That’s my wonderful dream.
“Sometimes when dreams become a reality, it is wonderful.”
He added: “My family are excited. They always think I’m the lucky guy, but I didn’t dream that I could win this much.
“I can’t believe it, really I can’t. This kind of amount is really life-changing.
“It is a win-win because when you play Postcode Lottery you are helping charities as well.”
Milan and another neighbour celebrated after SE18 1AB in London was chosen to win the grand prize of £250k for the most recent draw.
Milan’s dad, Durgabahadur, was a Rifleman in the Gurkha, and his paternal grandfather, Chandra Bir Ran, fought in the regiment during World War 2.
While his maternal great-grandfather Karanbahadur Rana, a Rifleman in the 2nd Battalion Queen Alexandra’s 3rd Gurkha Rifle, was awarded the Victoria Cross.
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Milan, formerly of the village of Phoksing, told the People’s Postcode Lottery of his pride at his heritage.
Sharing: “To be honest, I am always grateful to my ancestors. They are the ones who brought me into this world.”
Discussing how he plans to celebrate the big win, Milan said: “We’re going on a family camping holiday next weekend to a big campsite at Tunbridge Wells, and I’m the main person for all the kitchen things.”
