India, May 28 -- Ecstatic, full of gratitude," says dancer-actor-choreographer Mamata Shankar, who was conferred with the Padma Shri on Tuesday. Known for her unique dance style of blending Indian classical, folk and tribal dance with European theatrical techniques, Mamata describes the feeling of receiving the award as "priceless". She adds, "I knew since January that this day would come, but still, I couldn't have been prepared enough for the biggest day of my life, when I was recognised for my art. Nothing can match that moment when I was there, receiving my Padma Award from our President, Droupadi Murmu."

Since the list of Padma Award winners was announced in January, the 70-year-old started prepping for the ceremony immediately. "I ...