India, June 1 -- Actor and dance exponent Mamata Shanker says she is "ecstatic, full of gratitude," after being conferred the Padma Shri by President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi earlier this week (see right). Known for her unique style that blends Indian classical, folk and tribal dances with European theatrical techniques, Mamata describes the feeling of receiving the award as "priceless". "I knew since January that this day would come, but I still couldn't have been prepared enough for the biggest day of my life - I was recognised for my art," she says, adding, "Nothing can match that moment when I was receiving my Padma Award from the President." Ask how she felt during the ceremony and Mamata replies, "I felt like I do when I'm on stage; it was all so vibrant and musical. President Murmu's congratulatory words made me very emotional and it was an honour to greet Prime Minister Narendra Modi." The 70-year-old had been prepping for the ceremony ever since the list of Padma Award recipients was announced earlier this year. One of the first things she decided was her ensemble for the big day. "I chose a red and green traditional Bengali saree with golden embroidery for the ceremony. I zeroed in on it in January as I wanted to represent artisans from my roots while receiving the honour," she ends....