India, April 29 -- Dancer-choreographer Shakti and dancer-actor Mukti Mohan believe dance in all its forms is finally getting the respect it deserves in India.

On International Dance Day today, Mukti (37) notes, "Dancers are no longer referred to as nachaniya, naachne wale, or worst of all - an item girl. Respect took time, but today, we're seen as performers and keepers of art."

Her older sister Shakti (39) chimes in and shares, "We must train the next generation in Indian classical forms - koi sa bhi ho." She adds, "Bharatanatyam made us the dancers we are; Neeti di (Mohan, eldest sister and singer) got us started with it, and that was followed by ballet, jazz and whatnot (laughs)."

Dance, the duo reflects, is finally being recognise...