Lagatar24 Desk
Shraddha Kapoor’s upcoming film Eetha has landed in controversy even before its release, with the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the family of legendary Lavani artist Vithabai Narayangaonkar both demanding that the film’s title be changed to reflect the icon’s name.
What the Controversy Is About
According to Marathi media reports, the NCP’s film and cultural department has stated that since the film is a biopic of Vithabai Narayangaonkar, a celebrated Lavani artist from Maharashtra, its title should carry her name. The party’s state president Babasaheb Patil said the film should have been titled Vitha or Vithabai to honour her historic contribution to Maharashtra’s Lavani and Tamasha tradition.
Family Joins the Protest
The controversy deepened when Vithabai’s family voiced their support for the demand. Her sons Kailash and Rajesh Narayangaonkar and grandson Mohit Narayangaonkar expressed displeasure over the title Eetha, saying it is a matter of respect and not just a name. They want future generations to remember Vithabai Narayangaonkar by her name, given her pivotal role in shaping Maharashtra’s cultural heritage. Director Lakshman Utekar and producer Dinesh Vijan of Maddock Films are yet to respond officially.
Film Details
Eetha is directed by Lakshman Utekar and produced by Dinesh Vijan under the Maddock Films banner. The film stars Shraddha Kapoor alongside Randeep Hooda and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, and is scheduled to release on August 28, 2026.
