In a stroke of extraordinary luck, two friends from Madhya Pradesh, Satish Khatik, 24, and Sajid Mohammad, 23, have unearthed a 15.34-carat diamond estimated to be worth over Rs 50 lakh. The discovery was made in the Krishna Kalyanpur area of Panna district, known for its diamond-rich soil. The pair had only recently leased the mine, a mere 20 days prior to their remarkable find.

The diamond has been deposited at the Panna Diamond Office and will be put up for auction. Diamond officer Ravi Patel confirmed the deposit and estimated the diamond's value, noting that auction prices can exceed government valuations depending on market demand.

For Satish and Sajid, residents of Raniganj in Panna, this discovery is life-changing. Coming from modest backgrounds, Satish runs a small meat shop, while Sajid earns his living at a fruit stall. Mining was a chance to improve their families' financial situations, especially with the pressure of arranging funds for their sisters' weddings. Sajid's family has a history in diamond mining; his grandfather and father worked in the Panna mines for decades, but had limited success.

The friends intend to divide the auction proceeds equally. Their first priority is to fund their sisters' weddings and then invest the remaining money in their businesses and perhaps lease a new mine. Satish expressed that their years of hard work had finally paid off. Sajid echoed this sentiment, stating that their luck had shined after years of his family's involvement in the mines.

This discovery highlights the unpredictable nature of diamond mining in Panna, where many families undertake the "long-shot gamble" in the hopes of finding a life-changing treasure. This precious gem promises a more secure future for both Satish and Sajid.