Goa, Aug. 11 -- Sanguem witnessed scenes of excitement and anticipation on Sunday as the first day of ticket sales for theSangampur Ganesh Utsav Mandal lotterydrew massive crowds. From the early hours of the morning, thousands of hopefuls gathered, forming a snaking queue that stretched for nearly two kilometers, reflecting the scale of interest in this year's grand draw.

The reason for the unprecedented enthusiasm is clear - thegrand prize is a fully furnished 2BHK flat, a reward that has sent lottery fever soaring to new heights across the state. People from all corners of Goa made their way to Sanguem, some arriving overnight, determined to secure their chance at what many describe as a "life-changing opportunity."

Organisers of the ...