Eetha Sparks Debate as Vithabai Family Backs NCP’s Demand

Shraddha Kapoor’s upcoming biographical drama Eetha has become the centre of a growing controversy after the family of legendary Lavani artist Vithabai Narayangaonkar joined calls to change the film’s title. The demand, supported by the Nationalist Congress Party’s (NCP) Film and Cultural Department, argues that a biopic based on the celebrated performer should prominently feature her name to honour her legacy.

The debate emerged soon after the release of the film’s teaser, which received widespread appreciation for Shraddha Kapoor’s transformation into Vithabai Narayangaonkar. Despite the positive response to the first look, the title itself has drawn criticism from cultural leaders and the late artist’s family.

Babasaheb Patil, Maharashtra State President of the NCP’s Film and Cultural Department, questioned why the makers chose Eetha instead of naming the film Vitha or Vithabai. He said it was the party’s responsibility to preserve and honour Vithabai’s contribution to Maharashtra’s Lavani and Tamasha traditions, arguing that the title should reflect the identity of the woman whose life the film portrays.

Vithabai Narayangaonkar’s sons, Kailash and Rajesh Narayangaonkar, along with her grandson Mohit Narayangaonkar, have publicly backed the demand. The family has expressed disappointment over the title, saying that while the film celebrates her journey, it should also carry her name to ensure her contribution to Maharashtra’s folk culture receives the recognition it deserves.

The controversy has so far remained limited to the title, with no objections raised against the film’s subject or portrayal. Neither director Laxman Utekar, producer Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films, nor Shraddha Kapoor has issued an official response to the demands.

The teaser introduces Kapoor as a determined Lavani performer whose commitment to her art outweighs personal hardship. It opens with a Lavani performance before impatient spectators call for Eetha to take the stage. Backstage, her character—heavily pregnant—goes into labour but refuses to abandon the performance despite warnings that it could endanger her life. The sequence culminates in her returning to the stage shortly after childbirth, underscoring the resilience and larger-than-life persona associated with Vithabai.

The teaser closes by portraying the performer as a cultural icon, with cheering crowds and a voiceover describing her as a “toofan” (storm), highlighting her commanding presence in Maharashtra’s folk theatre tradition.

Vithabai Narayangaonkar remains one of the most revered names in Lavani and Tamasha. Her artistry earned recognition from the President of India on multiple occasions, including honours in 1957 and 1990. Despite achieving immense fame, her later years were reportedly marked by financial hardship, a contrast that has become an important part of her life story. Her legacy continues through members of her family, many of whom also pursued careers in Lavani and Tamasha.

Eetha marks another collaboration between Shraddha Kapoor and producer Dinesh Vijan after the success of the Stree franchise. The project also reunites Vijan with director Laxman Utekar following their successful partnership on Chhaava. Alongside Kapoor, the film features Randeep Hooda and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub in key roles.

The biopic is currently scheduled for a theatrical release on August 28, 2026. Whether the makers respond to the growing demand for a title change remains to be seen as discussions surrounding the film continue ahead of its release.