For mom and dad

Moms

~ Get her a recipe book of Italian delicacies (or any others) she has been pining for. If you are broke and can't afford it, surf the Net and get a collection of recipes from various sites. Get a printout with images and give it to her systematically filed in a pretty handmade folder. It's just a few hours of work.

~ A hand-embroidered shawl is an option if she likes ethnic wear. After all, winter is just around the corner.

~ A collection of music albums, custom-designed for the Festival of Lights, are easily available in the market and are apt for the occasion.

~ Traditional options include a sari or salwar kameez, a watch, a pair of gold earrings or a trendy necklace.

Dads

~ Get him a watch with a big dial, which he may have seen on a younger wrist. After all, there is no age limit for being stylish.

~ A suave leather wallet.

~ Men love formal shoes. Buy him a smart pair that he can wear when he wants to drip style.

~ A book of intense poetry will please intellectual dads. Pen a poem on its cover or first page to express how special he is and how he makes the festive season grand by just being there. This will make the gift even more precious.

Mom and dad, together

~ Your folks might cherish a religious painting, one of Ganesha for example.

~ A wall hanging or tastefully designed lamp with a mythological feel.