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Shraddha Kapoor turns into Vithabai Narayangaonkar for Eetha; Everything about the folk artiste
Shraddha Kapoor is returning to tell the story of legendary artiste Vithabai Narayangaonkar with Eetha. The film is scheduled for a grand theatrical release on August 28, 2026.
It’s been a while since the audience saw Shraddha Kapoor on the big screen. Well, during her brief hiatus, it seems like she was perfecting her antics and working hard to get into the shoes of Maharashtrian folk legend, Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar, for her upcoming biopic Eetha. After the unofficial teaser drop of the film, people have been yearning to know who the legendary character is. Read on to know more about Vithabai Narayangaonkar,
Who is Vithabai Narayangaonkar, the inspiration behind Shraddha Kapoor’s character in Eetha?
The teaser for Eetha was screened exclusively in cinemas alongside Cocktail 2. Directed by Laxman Utekar, the biopic stars Shraddha Kapoor as she undergoes a striking transformation to step into the shoes of the legendary Maharashtrian folk legend, Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar.
Affectionately remembered as the ‘Tamasha Samradini’ (the Queen of Tamasha), Vithabai Narayangaonkar was a legendary figure in Marathi folk theatre. Born into a family of traditional performers, she dedicated her life to the ancient arts of Lavani and Tamasha, highlighting the art form at a time when society heavily stigmatized female stage performers.
Vithabai was respected not just for her incredible vocals and dance steps, but for her unmatched resilience. The key anecdote of her life demonstrates her awe-inspiring devotion to her craft, which apparently is the hook of the film's initial teaser.
While performing on stage in the final stages of her pregnancy, Vithabai went into active labor. Unwilling to leave her audience or disrupt the show, she slipped backstage, delivered her baby, and immediately returned to the spotlight to finish her performance.
Her immense contribution to keeping folk heritage alive eventually earned her prestigious honors and a permanent place in India's cultural history.
The film Eetha chronicles Vithabai’s life journey spanning five decades. It promises an emotional look into her rise, hardships, and the battles she fought against systemic bias to support her group.
Helmed by Laxman Utekar and backed by Dinesh Vijan, the film features 39-year-old Shraddha as the main lead along with Randeep Hooda, Nana Patekar, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, and Siddharth Jadhav. The anticipated entertainer is scheduled for a grand theatrical release on August 28, 2026.
For more updates, stay tuned to Pinkvilla!
