Shraddha Kapoor’s Eetha Faces Title Controversy: Vithabai Narayangaonkar’s Family Demands Change

Shraddha Kapoor’s upcoming film Eetha is facing controversy as the family of renowned Lavani artist Vithabai Narayangaonkar has demanded a title change. With less than a month to go before its scheduled release on August 28, 2026, the family believes the film should honor Vithabai’s legacy by including her name in the title. This article explores the reasons behind the demand and what it means for the film.

Key Highlights

• Eetha stars Shraddha Kapoor as Vithabai Narayangaonkar, a celebrated Lavani artist.
• The film is scheduled for release on August 28, 2026.
• Vithabai’s family has demanded a title change to include her name.
• The National Congress Party (NCP) has also raised objections regarding the film’s title.
• The film is directed by Laxman Utekar and produced by Maddock Films.

The Full Story

Shraddha Kapoor’s Eetha has landed in controversy following objections from Vithabai Narayangaonkar’s family and the National Congress Party (NCP). Reports from TV9 Marathi indicate that they are questioning the omission of Vithabai’s name from the film’s title, suggesting that it should be changed to either Vitha or Vithabai. Babasaheb Patil, the state president of Maharashtra, emphasized that respecting Vithabai’s legacy is essential and that the film should reflect her significant contributions to the Lavani and Tamasha arts.

The family of Vithabai Narayangaonkar, including her sons Kailash and Rajesh, as well as her grandson Mohit, expressed their dissatisfaction with the current title. They believe that the biopic should prominently feature Vithabai’s name, given her influence in shaping the Lavani tradition in Maharashtra. As of now, neither Shraddha Kapoor nor director Laxman Utekar has publicly responded to the family’s demand.

In the film’s teaser, Shraddha Kapoor portrays Vithabai, showcasing her larger-than-life presence as she performs Lavani while pregnant, reflecting the struggles and triumphs faced by the artist. After the success of Stree, this collaboration with Maddock Films aims to celebrate a pivotal figure in Indian folk culture.

Cast and Crew

• Director: Laxman Utekar
• Producer: Maddock Films
• Cast:
  • Shraddha Kapoor
  • Randeep Hooda
  • Mohammad Zeeshan Ayyub

Background and Context

Vithabai Narayangaonkar was a celebrated folk artist known for her contributions to Maharashtra’s Lavani and Tamasha traditions. Her efforts were recognized nationally, including accolades from the President of India. However, her later years were marked by financial struggles, which adds a layer of poignancy to the film’s narrative.

The choice to create a biopic centered on her life aims to bring attention to her legacy, yet the controversy surrounding the film’s title raises questions about representation and respect in storytelling. As the film approaches its release, the creators will need to navigate this sensitive issue while honoring Vithabai’s legacy.

💡 Editor’s Note: The demand for a title change reflects broader discussions about representation in cinema. Recognizing historical figures in film titles can foster greater appreciation and awareness of their contributions, especially in biopics.

What’s Next

The film Eetha is set to release on August 28, 2026. Further announcements regarding promotional events or additional casting are anticipated as the release date approaches. No OTT release date has been announced yet.

Key Takeaways

• Vithabai Narayangaonkar’s family demands a title change for Eetha.
• The film is directed by Laxman Utekar and stars Shraddha Kapoor.
• Scheduled release date is August 28, 2026.
• The controversy highlights issues of representation in biopics.
• Further updates on the film are expected as the release date nears.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Eetha set to release?
Eetha is scheduled for release on August 28, 2026.

Who is the director of Eetha?
The film is directed by Laxman Utekar.

Is Eetha available on OTT platforms?
OTT release date has not yet been announced.

What is the film Eetha about?
Eetha is a biopic about Lavani artist Vithabai Narayangaonkar, highlighting her life and contributions to folk culture.

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Source: The Indian Express