Mumbai: The controversy surrounding the title of Shraddha Kapoor’s upcoming film Eetha appears to have been resolved after director Laxman Utekar personally spoke with the family of legendary Lavani artist Vitthabai Narayangaonkar. Following the discussion, the family has withdrawn its objection to the film’s title, clearing the way for the film’s theatrical release on August 28.

The development comes after Vitthabai Narayangaonkar’s grandson, Mohit Narayangaonkar, and Babasaheb Patil, State President of the Film and Cultural Department of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), had earlier questioned the use of the title Eetha. They had argued that the film should instead have been named Vittha or Vitthabai Narayangaonkar to honour the celebrated folk artist’s legacy.

However, after receiving an explanation from the filmmaker, the family has expressed satisfaction and said they no longer have any objections to the title.

Director explains the reason behind the title

Speaking about the conversation with Laxman Utekar, Mohit Narayangaonkar said the filmmaker clarified that the title Eetha was chosen because Vitthabai was affectionately known by that name in several rural parts of Maharashtra.

According to Mohit, the director explained that the film is deeply rooted in rural culture and authenticity, making the title appropriate for the story being told.

He said the family had initially requested that the filmmakers use Vitthabai’s professional name, but accepted the explanation after understanding the creative reasoning behind the decision.

Mohit added that the family now has no issue with the title and believes the film portrays the Tamasha and Lavani community in a respectful and positive manner.

Family praises the film’s message

Although the family has not yet watched the film, Mohit said Laxman Utekar assured them that Eetha presents the lives of Tamasha artists with dignity and highlights hope for the community’s future.

He said the filmmaker described the project as a positive representation of Maharashtra’s rich folk art traditions rather than simply a biographical account.

Trusting the director’s vision, Mohit said the family would reserve its final opinion until the film releases on August 28.

He also clarified that the title Eetha had been registered long before shooting began and was not chosen because any other title was unavailable.

Shraddha Kapoor expected to visit Narayangaon

One of the major developments following the resolution of the controversy is the proposed visit by the film’s cast and crew to Narayangaon before the film’s release.

Mohit Narayangaonkar confirmed that Shraddha Kapoor is expected to accompany director Laxman Utekar and other members of the team during the visit.

He also suggested that Narayangaon, often regarded as the cultural heartland of Tamasha, would be an ideal location for the film’s first premiere or a special promotional event.

According to Mohit, the director responded positively to the proposal and indicated that the team intends to visit the village before the film reaches theatres.

While the final schedule has not yet been announced, the visit is expected to include interactions with Vitthabai Narayangaonkar’s family and members of the local Tamasha community.

NCP leader confirms the family’s decision

Babasaheb Patil also confirmed that the family has accepted the director’s explanation regarding the title.

He said Laxman Utekar spoke to Mohit Narayangaonkar in detail, explaining the creative and technical reasons why changing the title at this stage would not be feasible.

According to Patil, the filmmaker assured the family that the title was selected with cultural sensitivity and was not intended to diminish Vitthabai Narayangaonkar’s legacy.

Following the conversation, the family, including renowned Lavani artist Mangala Bansode, agreed to put the issue to rest and wait for the film’s release before making any further comments.

Patil also confirmed that the filmmakers are planning to meet the family in Narayangaon ahead of the release.

Film celebrates Maharashtra’s folk traditions

Directed by Laxman Utekar, Eetha stars Shraddha Kapoor in the lead role and is scheduled to release in cinemas on August 28.

While the makers have kept several details about the storyline under wraps, the film is expected to explore the world of Tamasha and Lavani, two traditional performing art forms that have played a significant role in Maharashtra’s cultural heritage.

The project has generated considerable interest due to its subject matter as well as Shraddha Kapoor’s role, which marks another performance rooted in regional culture.

The film also features Randeep Hooda, Nana Patekar and several Marathi actors, although it remains unclear which members of the cast will join the Narayangaon visit.

Conclusion

With the title controversy now resolved, Eetha appears to have received the support of Vitthabai Narayangaonkar’s family. The proposed visit by Shraddha Kapoor and director Laxman Utekar to Narayangaon before the film’s release is expected to further strengthen the connection between the film and the community whose cultural legacy it seeks to celebrate. Attention will now turn to the film’s theatrical release on August 28 and how audiences respond to its portrayal of Maharashtra’s iconic folk traditions.