Eetha: NCP demands Vithabai's name in title as Shraddha Kapoor's film sparks buzz

Actor Shraddha Kapoor’s Eetha, an upcoming biopic based on the life of legendary Marathi folk artiste Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar, has found itself at the centre of a controversy over its title. While the film aims to bring the story of the iconic Lavani and Tamasha performer to a wider audience, questions are now being raised over whether her name and legacy have been given the recognition they deserve. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), along with Vithabai's family, has demanded that her name be included in the film's title.

Speaking exclusively to India Today about the film and the importance of preserving Vithabai’s legacy, Suhas Suryavanshi, Mumbai President (Culture) of the NCP (Sharad Pawar faction), raised concerns over the title and the portrayal of the artiste. Calling her a legendary figure of Marathi folk culture, he said that while they appreciate the effort to bring Vithabai’s journey to the big screen, the filmmakers must ensure that her dignity and contribution are respected.

"She is considered the Lavani Samratni of Maharashtra. She was an outstanding performer in Marathi Tamasha or the Marathi folk industry. They have to take care of the dignity of this great artist, and that is why we are talking [about changing the title]. She should be given the dignity that she deserves. The film should be named after her,” he asserted.

'She returned to the stage after giving birth'

Suryavanshi further spoke about her dedication to performing and recalled the story associated with Vithabai’s commitment to the stage. "She entertained with her special attitude, approach, devotion, dedication towards the folk at such a level that even when she was pregnant with her baby, she performed. She was not compelled or forced, but she thought that it was my duty and I have to perform. She went into labour, gave birth to her child and then immediately, within a fraction of a minute, she came back on stage and completed her act," he shared.

Watch the movie teaser here:

Questions over the title and legacy

Suryavanshi also spoke about the significance of the name 'Vitha', explaining its connection with Vithabai’s roots and her birthplace, Pandharpur. He said the place is considered sacred and questioned why director Laxman Utekar has not highlighted these aspects.

While discussing Vithabai’s legacy, Suryavanshi added that the concern is not limited to the title alone. Referring to apprehensions about fictionalisation in the biopic, he said the makers should also ensure that those connected to Vithabai’s life get an opportunity to watch the film before its release. “She is the pride of Marathi people, so it will be only justified for the filmmakers if they arrange a show for us and the family. Only then should they proceed with the release,” he said.

About Vithabai Narayangaonkar

Vithabai Narayangaonkar, remembered as one of Maharashtra’s most celebrated folk artistes and popularly known as the Tamasha Samratni, was admired for her extraordinary dedication to the art form. Her life has been marked by several stories that reflect her commitment, including the widely known account of her returning to the stage minutes after giving birth during a performance.

We reached out to director Laxman Utekar for a response but did not hear back till the filing of this story.

The film is scheduled to release in cinemas on August 28, 2026.