With people queuing up outside astrologers’ offices to find out how the trilogy of number 8, brought about by today’s date 08-08-08, would affect them, HT City decided to speak to its own panel of experts to get a lowdown on the day. Says noted tarot reader Ma Prem Ritambhara, “Nothing special about this day and #8230;nothing to worry.

If something bad has to happen, it will happen no matter what the date is.” Numerologist Sanjay B Jumaani agrees but still advises caution, “08.08.08 is eight days after the solar eclipse and eight days before the lunar eclipse.

People should go about their normal chores but should not do anything auspicious such as starting a new venture or getting engaged or married today.” Astrologer Dr Prem K Sharma gives a reason to cheer when he says, “Number 8 is governed by Lord Shani (Saturn) and his benign influence gives us power, independence, ambition and organisation.

08+08+2008 = 26, also adding up to 8 which is again influenced by Saturn - the planet that rules judgement, hard work and strong determination.” People on the street had varying views about the ’special’ date.

Says Rahul, 21 “The triple 8 date has a nice ring to it. I don’t believe in superstitions but if we do something nice on this day, it’ll be memorable.

If I get off early today, I can take my girlfriend out for a date and the day becomes auspicious for me.” Priyanka, 26 seems a bit cautious as she says, “I’ve always been scared of dates like these when numbers get repeated.

More so because 06-06-06, the devil’s number, didn’t go too well for me. I’d rather err on the side of caution and not plan anything big for this day.