The First Girl on Stage

The First Girl on Stage

Tunga Dances the Yakshagana

Words By: Shruthi Rao | Art By: Devika Joglekar

One girl stepped into the spotlight . . . and started a movement

Tunga wants to learn yakshagana like her brother Ramesha. She dreams of painting her face, wearing glittering costumes, and performing ancient stories of kings and warriors. Alone in the woods, Tunga makes crowns from leaves and tree bark. She stomps and she jumps, and finally captures the attention of a teacher to guide her. As Tunga swirls and whirls onto the stage, she brings other girls into the spotlight as well, ushering in a new era for yakshagana.

In a gorgeous showcase of a traditional dance and storytelling art form popular in South India, this picture book is a tribute to the pioneering women who have carved out a space for themselves on the stage and beyond.

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Skipping Stones Honor Award: Best of Multicultural & International Award (2026) 

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". . . a sweet story about determination . . . Joglekar’s illustrations are phenomenal; the style is simple but the use of color shines, particularly the vibrant yellows and oranges of the performers’ costumes, which make them seem to leap off the page. A charming tale of pursuing a dream that features marvelous images." — Kirkus Reviews

"Featuring charming, full-color illustrations by artist Devika Joglekar . . . a wonderful addition to family, grade school library, and public library picture book multicultural collections, and highly recommended - especially as inspiration for young girls!"  — Midwest Book Review

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Themes: Performing Arts; Conflict with Society; Courage; Determination; Perseverance; South Asia; Around the World; Cultural Studies; Personal Growth; Social Issues; Strong Female Protagonist; Include Teaching Resources; Include Backmatter; Include Primary Sources