Kuchipudi art form is a classical dance style that derives its name from the village of Kuchelapuram, in Andhra Pradesh, India. It is a dance drama performance, with its roots from the Natya Shastra. Like all other arts in India, Kuchipudi is rooted deep in religion and grew largely as a product of the Bhakti movement beginning in the seventh century A.D. It was only in the 14th century, however, that the ascetic Siddhendra Yogi gave it a new definition and direction.

The technique of Kuchipudi makes use of fast rhythmic footwork and sculpturesque body movements. Stylized mime, using hand gestures and subtle facial expression, is combined with more realistic acting, occasionally including dialogues spoken by the dancers. With its blend of techniques, Kuchipudi is unique among the Indian classical dances.

Smt. Padma Sonti is an is an artist, teacher, and a choreographer . An ardent disciple of Dr. Vempati Chinna Satyam and Smt. Sobha Naidu. She has a Masters degree in dance with a specialization in Kuchipudi. She even received the prestigious National Dance Scholarship from the government of India.

In 1996, Smt. Sonti established the Kuchipudi Kalakshetra School of Dance and has put on many performances throughout the years in order to promote and encourage the growth of Kuchipudi across the North Texas Region. Since the schools inception, she has choreographed productions such as Sivananda Lahari and Datta Darshanam, to name a few.

Cultural and charity performances have been a focus of many of the schools performances, including Chandalika, Menaka Vishwamitra, and Kalamalika. Over the years, the Kalakshetra has grown into an established and renowned school that guides its students from their first steps in Kuchipudi to their Rangapravesam and beyond.