The First Girl on Stage

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.