Dance is the essence of India, we Indians show myriad emotions through our varied dance styles at different occasions. Be it stage, television or films dance in India is present in all spheres, in a way we can say that dance and music are two souls of our country.

Government of India thought the National Excellence Award recognises talent that has excelled in their respective field be it art, social work, technology, science, etc. This year the 16th National Excellence Award ceremony was held with great aplomb in the commercial capital of Madhya Pradesh, Indore. All the important political and Government officials were present at the celebrated event organised by Alma Group.

At this glittering ceremony Bollywood choreographer and dancer Sandip Soparrkar was honoured with the "16th National Excellence Award" for his contribution in the field of dance. Sandip was one of the the first few choreographers who brought in international dances on the big screen and also introduced Ballroom and Latin Dance culture to dance lovers in India apart from making it famous on Indian television reality shows. Soparrkar's distinctive style of choreography can be seen from the very beginning of his career back in 2001. Some of his most notable work of includes choreography for films like Zubaidaa, Kites and Saat Khoon Maaf, Mangal Pandey, etc. Plus he has taken India globally by teaching dance to International icons like Madonna, Britney Spears and Beyonce Knowles. Many young influences of Bollywood today also happened to be a part of Sandip Soparrkar's Ballroom Studio.

This year The Government of India and Alma Group recognised Sandip Soparrkar's incredible work in Bollywood and Hollywood by bestowing him with the "National Excellence Award 2016”. Former Cabinet Minister honourable Shri Mani Shankar Aiyer presented him the stunning Ashok Stambh Trophy and a bronze medal along with a certificate.

Speaking on the occasion the dance maestro said, "I feel truly humbled that our government has given me this recognition, this is my 2nd national honour, first being the "National Achievement Award" in 2014. With this award in my hand I promise that I will continue to introduce various world dances to dance lovers of my country and try and bring the world closer though my art form."