SHANGHAI: A couple in eastern China have welcomed nine daughters, all of whom share the Chinese character di or “brother” in their names, reflecting their desire for a son.
The family’s story highlights a traditional preference for male children, particularly in rural areas. It has gained traction on social media in mainland China, as reported by the Shanghai Morning Post.
The nine sisters, with a 20-year age gap between the eldest and the youngest, were born and raised in a village in Huaian, Jiangsu province. Their father, surnamed Ji, who is now 81, chose names for all of them that end with di.
The eldest daughter, around 60 years old, is named Zhaodi, meaning “soliciting a brother”. The second daughter is Pandi, and the third is Wangdi, both signifying “looking forward to a brother”.
They are followed by Xiangdi, meaning “thinking of a brother”, Laidi, which translates to “brother coming”, Yingdi or “welcome a brother,” and Niandi, meaning “missing a brother”.
The most striking name belongs to the eighth daughter, Choudi, which connotes “hating a brother”, revealing the parents’ desperation for a son. After her, they named their youngest daughter Mengdi, meaning “dream of a brother”.
“My father had a strong desire for a son, which is why they had us nine children,” Xiangdi shared.
“Even though we are daughters, our parents have always loved us very much. They never mistreated us. Now our big family lives happily together.”
Xiangdi mentioned that despite being poor farmers, her father ensured that none of his daughters dropped out of school.
“He often told my mother, ‘What’s wrong with daughters? I just like girls. I will do my very best to support their education,’” she recalled.
The family gained public interest after Xiangdi began posting videos of their lives on a major social media platform in early March.
“We played, fought, and quarrelled together when we were young. We laughed as we grew up,” she wrote. “Sisters are my best friends for life. I’m so delighted and happy to have their company.”
Ji’s situation is not unique in China, as many couples believe they should have a son who will support them in old age. Traditionally, daughters have not been expected to care for their parents after marriage and typically do not inherit family property. There is a saying that a daughter married off is like water that has been splashed out.
However, this perspective has been gradually changing over the past few decades. Many couples, especially in larger cities, now prefer daughters, partly due to the high bride price that men must pay when marrying.
Ji’s story has sparked significant discussions on mainland social media.
“Their names are truly remarkable. What relentless persistence their father has!” commented one netizen.
Another humorously added: “Their parents gave up too early. Maybe the tenth child is a boy, ha ha.” - South China Morning Post
