Mumbai: Shraddha Kapoor’s upcoming biographical drama Eetha, based on the life of legendary Tamasha artist and Lavani performer Vithabai Narayangaonkar, has landed in controversy after members of the Nationalist Congress Party’s (NCP) Film and Cultural Department objected to the film’s title. The organisation, backed by members of Vithabai’s family, has argued that the title does not adequately honour the folk icon’s legacy and has urged the makers to rename the film.
The controversy comes shortly after the teaser of director Laxman Utekar’s film was released, with Shraddha Kapoor’s transformation into the celebrated performer earning praise from audiences.
Why is the title facing objections?
According to reports, the NCP’s Film and Cultural Department believes the title Eetha fails to reflect the stature and contribution of Vithabai Narayangaonkar to Maharashtra’s folk art tradition.
Party members have suggested that the film should instead be titled Vitha or Vithabai, arguing that using her name would better honour her legacy and make the connection with the legendary performer immediately recognisable.
The organisation has maintained that Vithabai was not merely a Tamasha artist but a cultural icon who played a significant role in popularising Maharashtra’s traditional performing arts.
Vithabai’s family supports the demand
The demand to reconsider the title has reportedly received support from Vithabai Narayangaonkar’s family.
According to reports, her sons, Kailash Narayangaonkar and Rajesh Narayangaonkar, along with her grandson Mohit Narayangaonkar, have backed the NCP’s request for a title change.
Babasaheb Patil, Maharashtra State President of the NCP’s Film and Cultural Department, said it was the party’s responsibility to ensure that Vithabai’s life and contribution are portrayed with dignity and respect.
The family has reportedly expressed similar concerns regarding the title.
Makers yet to respond
As of now, neither director Laxman Utekar nor production house Maddock Films has issued an official statement regarding the objections.
The filmmakers have also not commented on whether they are considering changing the title before the film’s release.
With the film scheduled to hit theatres later this year, it remains to be seen whether the controversy will have any impact on its promotional campaign.
What the teaser shows
The recently released teaser highlights one of the most remarkable episodes from Vithabai Narayangaonkar’s life.
Shraddha Kapoor is seen portraying the legendary Lavani artist while heavily pregnant, continuing to perform on stage despite experiencing labour pains.
According to the teaser, Vithabai delivers her baby backstage during a performance before returning to complete the show, demonstrating extraordinary dedication to her art.
The sequence has drawn attention for its dramatic portrayal and Shraddha’s physical transformation into the iconic performer.
Film based on Vithabai’s life
Eetha chronicles the life and journey of Vithabai Narayangaonkar, one of Maharashtra’s most celebrated Tamasha artists, whose performances helped bring the state’s folk traditions to national and international audiences.
The film has been shot across several locations, including Madh Island in Mumbai, Solapur, Satara, Nashik, Aundhewadi and Bhor, to recreate important moments from Vithabai’s life.
Apart from Shraddha Kapoor, the film also stars Randeep Hooda and Mohammad Zeeshan Ayyub in pivotal roles.
The biographical drama is scheduled to release in theatres on August 28.
Awaiting clarity
While the teaser has generated excitement among moviegoers, the debate over the title has introduced an unexpected controversy ahead of the film’s release.
Whether the makers decide to retain Eetha or consider the demand for a different title remains unclear, as no official response has been issued so far.