9/9/09: A date with destiny

This baby was born in Kalasin yesterday on the auspicious – and ‘lucky’ – day of 999, or 9/9/09.

A 999 mood swept the nation yesterday as people found their own ways to mark the auspicious date.

Hospitals reported requests from expecting mothers that their babies be delivered on the lucky day.

In Bangkok alone, records show at least 63 babies have September 9, 2009 on their birth certificates.

Born lucky

Dr Phirapong Saichua, who heads Bangkok's Medical Service Division, said two mothers underwent Caesarean section to ensure their babies were born at precisely 9.09am.

At Chiang Rai Regional Hospital, where 13 babies had been born yesterday, deputy director Dr Supak Pitiphakorn said mothers were closely monitored before any decisions about birth were taken.

"We make all decisions based on health and gestation period. If a mothertobe has not reached her full term, we will by no means order a Caesarean section," Supak explained.

As of press time, eight more pregnant women were waiting at the hospital, hoping their babies would come into the world on 9/9/09.

Lampang Hospital director Dr Songwut Sapthaweesin reported seven newborns on the ward yesterday.

One of them, Suriya Thammasilp, hit the jackpot - he was born at exactly at 9.09am.

"His mother Boonning gave birth naturally," said Songwut.

Hearing about her son's birth time, Boonning was delighted.

"I think he must have accumulated huge merit in a past life," she said.

Marriages made official

The 999 fever was also intense among thousands of couples who chose yesterday to register their marriages. In Bangkok's aptly named Bang Rak ("district of love"), about 300 couples sought marriage certificates. The phenomenon was repeated elsewhere. At Mueang Nakhon Sakan district office, dozens of sweethearts arrived hand in hand for certificates.

"I think this auspicious time will bless us with progress," said Nattawan Klongthanomsak, husband by her side. The word kao (nine) is part of the Thai phrase kao na  "progress".

Nine cheers for His Majesty

People across the country also chose to celebrate with ceremonies in honour of their beloved King, the ninth ruler of the Chakri dynasty. At Sanam Luang, 109 monks received alms in a ceremony led by Bangkok Governor MR Sukhumbhand Paribatra and dedicated to His Majesty. At one point a lottery vendor approached Sukhumbhand with six lottery tickets numbered 999999. The Governor snapped them up for Bt480.