The First Girl on Stage: Tunga Dances the Yakshagana

The First Girl on Stage: Tunga Dances the Yakshagana Written by Shruthi Rao. Illustrated by Devika Joglekar. (Yali Books/Sambasivan & Parikh, 2025) Join Tunga, a young girl in South India, as she pursues her dream of learning yakshagana, a vibrant traditional performance art that combines music, dance, storytelling, elaborate costumes, and dramatic expression. Inspired by the energy and beauty of the art form, Tunga discovers the dedication, courage, and perseverance required to master an enduring cultural tradition that has entertained and connected communities for generations.

Rao’s lyrical storytelling and informative back matter introduce readers to the rich history and significance of yakshagana, while Joglekar’s vivid illustrations capture the movement, color, and spectacle of the performances with warmth and authenticity. Her dynamic artwork brings the costumes, landscapes, and emotions of the story to life, immersing readers in this celebrated South Indian cultural tradition.

Together, the text and illustrations create an engaging work of historical fiction inspired by real pioneers, celebrating artistic expression, determination, and the power of cultural traditions to evolve over time. Without revealing the outcome of Tunga’s journey, the book encourages readers to appreciate the individuals who have expanded opportunities within the arts while preserving and enriching a treasured form of storytelling.