The debate over the title of Shraddha Kapoor’s upcoming film Eetha has taken a decisive turn. Mangala Bansode Karavadikar, the eldest daughter of legendary Lavani artist Vithabai Narayangaonkar, has publicly supported the film’s name, putting an end to the growing controversy. Her statement comes after objections were raised by some family members and political leaders who wanted the biopic to be named after the folk icon herself.
Daughter Clarifies Family’s Position on Film Title
Mangala Bansode Karavadikar, who is 75 years old and a noted Tamasha artiste herself, made it clear that the family has no problem with the title Eetha. She explained that the name carries deep personal meaning and was actually how villagers affectionately addressed her mother during her performances.
“We have no objection to the film’s title. I have spoken with Mohit and have requested him to not give out any further statements on the same. The title is appropriate because in those days, people from the villages where my mother performed would often call her Eetha.”
Mangala, who is also a President’s Award recipient, revealed that she had already shared this detail with director Laxman Utekar during his research for the film. She recalled growing up watching audiences lovingly refer to her mother as “Eetha” and believes the title reflects an important part of the legendary artist’s identity.
“I have been performing on stage since I was seven years old and have heard people address my mother by that name. We are happy that through this film people will come to know about my mother and how dedicated she was to her craft.”
What Sparked the Title Controversy
The trouble began after the teaser of Eetha was released. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) raised objections, arguing that a biopic on Vithabai Narayangaonkar should have been named after her. Babasaheb Patil, Maharashtra State President of the NCP’s Film and Cultural Department, questioned why the makers chose not to call the film Vitha or Vithabai.
Reports also suggested that some members of Vithabai’s family shared similar concerns. Her grandson Mohit Narayangaonkar reportedly objected to the title and demanded that the late artiste’s full name be included. This created a wave of discussion around whether the filmmakers had disrespected the legacy of the folk icon.
Grandson Accepts Director’s Explanation
Adding to the resolution, Mohit Narayangaonkar told NDTV that he is now satisfied with the explanation given by director Laxman Utekar. The filmmaker explained that in rural areas, Vithabai was popularly known as ‘Eetha’.
“Yes, absolutely, we are satisfied. He spoke to us over the phone. We had requested that the film’s title be changed, but he explained that in the rural areas, Vitthabai was earlier known as ‘Eetha’. That is why they chose this title for the film. We have no problem with it now.”
Mohit also confirmed that the film has been made in a positive way and presents the Tamasha and Lavani community in a good light. He added that the entire team, including Shraddha Kapoor, is expected to visit Narayangaon before the film’s release.
Who Was Vithabai Narayangaonkar?
Vithabai Narayangaonkar was one of Maharashtra’s most loved and respected Lavani and Tamasha performers. Known for her powerful stage presence and unmatched performances, she became a household name and left a lasting impact on the state’s folk art scene. She was honoured by the President of India in 1957 and again in 1990 for her contribution to Indian folk arts. The Government of Maharashtra also conferred her with the title of Tamasha Samradni.
Despite her immense popularity, Vithabai reportedly faced financial hardships in her later years. Today, her passion for Lavani and Tamasha lives on through her family, with several of her children and sons-in-law continuing the tradition.
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About Shraddha Kapoor’s Eetha
Directed by Laxman Utekar, Eetha is produced by Dinesh Vijan under the Maddock Films banner. The film stars Shraddha Kapoor in the role of the iconic Lavani performer. It also features Randeep Hooda, Nana Patekar, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, and Siddharth Jadhav in pivotal roles. The music is composed by the acclaimed duo Ajay-Atul. The film is scheduled to release in cinemas on August 28, 2026, coinciding with the Raksha Bandhan holiday period.
The recently released teaser has already generated significant buzz, with Shraddha Kapoor’s transformation into Vithabai Narayangaonkar earning praise from audiences. The film will face box-office competition from Vvan, starring Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia.
Also Read: Amitabh Bachchan Opens Up About Juggling 10-15 Films Simultaneously, Says Fear of No Work Drove Him
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