Shraddha Kapoor’s upcoming film Eetha, based on the life of legendary Tamasha dancer Vithabai Narayangaonkar, has landed in controversy over its title. The NCP’s Film and Cultural Department, backed by Vithabai’s own family, feels the title is unfitting. Meanwhile, the makers have not yet responded to the objection.
‘Eetha’ is an upcoming movie starring Shraddha Kapoor, based on the life of Vithabai Narayangaonkar, a renowned Tamasha dancer from Pandharpur who popularized Maharashtra’s folk art worldwide. The movie is helmed by director Laxman Utekar. Before the teaser was released online, it was first played in theatres for the audience. The teaser showed a very special and emotional moment from Vithabai’s life: the birth of her baby. People loved seeing Shraddha transform into a lavani dancer and her performance impressed many. The film is likely to earn big at the box office. At the same time, the movie’s title has become a subject of debate and controversy.
Why has the NCP objected to the ‘Eetha’ title?
According to TV9 Marathi, the NCP’s Film and Cultural Department has raised concerns over the title of the film. The party’s members feel that the title ‘Eetha’ fails to truly honor Vithabai Narayangaonkar’s legacy and greatness. They questioned why the makers did not simply name the film ‘Vitha’ or ‘Vithabai’, which they believe would have been more fitting. The department strongly supported this demand, pointing out that Vithabai was not just an ordinary folk artist, but someone who carried forward the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra, including its art forms and Tamasha tradition. The members felt that the current title ‘Eetha’ does not carry the weight or impact that a film on such a legendary personality deserves.
Why are Vithabai’s family and the NCP standing together against ‘Eetha’?
The report further reveals that Vithabai’s family has thrown its weight behind the NCP’s Film and Cultural Department. Her sons Kailash Narayangaonkar and Rajesh Narayangaonkar, together with her grandson Mohit Narayangaonkar, have expressed their full support for the party’s demand. NCP’s Maharashtra State President Babasaheb Patil emphasized that it is both his personal and the party’s responsibility to ensure Vithabai’s life and legacy are depicted on screen with the highest level of respect, dignity and grace. Despite all the noise surrounding the controversy, the film’s makers Maddock Films and director Laxman Utekar have remained completely silent and have yet to issue any statement or response regarding the objections raised over the film’s title.
What powerful moment does the ‘Eetha’ teaser show?
The teaser of ‘Eetha’ offers a glimpse into one of the most powerful and moving moments of Vithabai Narayangaonkar’s life. Shraddha slips into the character effortlessly right from the very first frame. The teaser shows her in the later stages of her pregnancy, yet continuing to perform on stage without any hesitation. During one of her performances, she realizes that the time for her baby’s arrival has come. However, rather than stopping the show abruptly, she calmly walks backstage and gives birth to her child. In a breathtaking moment, Vithabai cuts the umbilical cord with a stone and walks right back onto the stage to continue her performance, leaving everyone present completely speechless. The audience is moved by her incredible dedication and bravery and showers her with praise. According to historical accounts, after the delivery, the show was immediately brought to a halt so that Vithabai could rest and recover.
When is ‘Eetha’ releasing and who are the other cast members?
To make the film look and feel real, the makers shot it at many different places like Madh Island in Mumbai, Solapur, Aundhewadi, Satara, Nashik and Bhor. Apart from Shraddha, the film also has Randeep Hooda and Mohammad Zeesha Ayyub playing important roles. ‘Eetha’ will be releasing in cinemas on August 28. Go to Source
