Mumbai: Actress Shraddha Kapoor‘s upcoming film Eetha has landed in controversy even before its theatrical release. While the recently unveiled teaser won praise for the actress’s transformation into legendary Lavani and Tamasha artist Vithabai Narayangaonkar, the film’s title has now come under criticism from political leaders and members of the late artist’s family.
The controversy erupted after leaders from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) questioned why the biographical drama was not named after Vithabai Narayangaonkar. Soon after, members of the folk icon’s family also appealed to the makers to reconsider the title and rename the film in her honour.
NCP questions choice of title
According to reports, the NCP’s Film and Cultural Department has objected to the title Eetha, arguing that a biopic based on the life of Vithabai Narayangaonkar should carry her name.
The party has suggested alternative titles such as Vitha or Vithabai, stating that these would better acknowledge the legendary artist’s immense contribution to Maharashtra’s Lavani and Tamasha traditions.
Babasaheb Patil, Maharashtra State President of the NCP’s Film and Cultural Department, reportedly said that preserving and honouring Vithabai’s legacy is a collective responsibility. He questioned the decision to use a different title despite the artist’s lasting impact on Maharashtra’s folk culture.
Family supports demand for title change
The demand has also received support from Vithabai Narayangaonkar’s family.
According to reports, her sons, Kailash and Rajesh Narayangaonkar, along with her grandson Mohit Narayangaonkar, have expressed disappointment over the title and urged the filmmakers to rename the biopic after the celebrated artist.
Family members believe that a film chronicling Vithabai’s remarkable journey and achievements should bear her name so that future generations continue to recognise her contribution to preserving and popularising Maharashtra’s traditional art forms.
As of now, director Laxman Utekar and production banner Maddock Films have not issued any statement regarding the controversy or the demand for a title change.
Teaser showcases Shraddha in an intense role
Despite the title row, the teaser of Eetha has generated significant interest among audiences and film enthusiasts.
The teaser opens with a packed Lavani performance, with the audience eagerly waiting for Eetha to take the stage.
Backstage, Shraddha’s character is shown preparing for her performance despite being heavily pregnant. She soon goes into labour and is seen enduring intense pain. Even as she is warned that performing could endanger her life, she refuses to leave the stage.
Moments after giving birth, she returns to complete her performance, underlining the character’s unwavering dedication to her art and craft.
The teaser has been widely appreciated for its emotional intensity and for showcasing Shraddha Kapoor in what could be one of the most demanding roles of her career.
Film’s release now under spotlight
The controversy surrounding the title has added a new dimension to the anticipation surrounding the film. While supporters of the demand argue that naming the film after Vithabai Narayangaonkar would be a fitting tribute to the folk legend, others believe the filmmakers may have chosen Eetha for creative reasons linked to the narrative.
Whether the makers decide to retain the existing title or reconsider it in response to the criticism remains to be seen.
For now, Eetha continues to remain in the spotlight both for Shraddha Kapoor’s transformation and the growing debate over how the life of one of Maharashtra’s most celebrated folk artists should be represented on screen.