THE GIFT 

Aniket was in a fix. It was iris parents' anniversary and he had forgotten to wish them. At work, he was contemplating about finding a gift for them to surprise them in the evening. However, it was easier said than done. His father had keen interest in books and arts while his mother was the quintessential Bengali housewife who only wanted utility stuff as gifts. He just couldn't buy something like a watch, book or jewellery, for the risk of being scolded for spending hard-earned money without consulting them first. Being in the fag end of the month, Aniket had to even look at his stretching expenditures before deciding to buy something. He spent the whole day thinking about gift options while pretending to look busy at work. He also searched online for ideas, for something financially viable, an attractive yet a utilitarian thing, something that brings smile to his parents' faces, but in vain. 

Finally, at around 4 p.m. Aniket decided that it is best to get down to the market and look for a gift rather than thinking around in circles. He left office early, and about an hour later found himself roaming around the busy Karol Bagh market looking at the colourful stores and stalls all around. He walked around for nearly an hour, only to get confused at the end. 

At last, swallowing his pride he dialled his father, "Hello Baba, is Ma around? yes, well I forgot to wish you guys happy anniversary today and I felt bad that I did, so I was here at the market looking for a gift but as always I am totally confused as to what to buy. Can you help me out, please?" He heard a chuckle at the other end. "Where are you? At the market? Well, come home first, we'll decide on the gift later"' With that, his father disconnected the line. "Well at least they are not angry," thought Aniket as he walked back home somewhat relieved. 

As he rang the bell and walked in, he found his father at his desk, working on some project files while his mother was tinkering something in the kitchen. Aniket touched their feet and sought blessings from them and it hit him at that moment. The best gift he can give them is his love and respect which are much more valuable and priceless than any material gift. The blessings ire received from them were by far the Lest gift which can be exchanged between parents and children.