Even before hitting theatres, actor Shraddha Kapoor's upcoming film Eetha has landed in controversy over its title.
While the teaser has been praised for Shraddha's striking transformation, the film's title has come under scrutiny.
Both the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and members of Vithabai's family have objected to it, triggering a debate even before the film's release.
According to the party, Vithabai Narayangaonkar was a nationally recognised artiste and a recipient of prestigious honours.
However, they pointed out that she was publicly known throughout her career as Vithabai Narayangaonkar.
Even before hitting theatres, actor Shraddha Kapoor's upcoming film Eetha has landed in controversy over its title. Directed by Laxman Utekar, the biopic traces the life of legendary lavani and tamasha artiste Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar, one of Maharashtra's most revered folk performers.
While the teaser has been praised for Shraddha's striking transformation, the film's title has come under scrutiny. Both the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and members of Vithabai's family have objected to it, triggering a debate even before the film's release.
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So, why has the title sparked controversy? Here's a look at what the controversy is about.
The Maharashtra unit of the NCP's Film and Cultural Department has formally requested the makers to change the title of the film from Eetha to either Vitha or Vithabai.
According to the party, Vithabai Narayangaonkar was a nationally recognised artiste and a recipient of prestigious honours. They argued that a film based on her life should carry her actual name so that future generations can identify and remember her contribution to Maharashtra's folk culture.
The party has stressed that it is not opposing the film itself. Instead, it wants the title to reflect the identity of the woman whose story is being told.
Why is the name Eetha being questioned?
Those objecting to the title acknowledge that Vithabai was affectionately called "Eetha" by some people in rural Maharashtra. However, they pointed out that she was publicly known throughout her career as Vithabai Narayangaonkar.
NCP leaders fear that using Eetha as the title could overshadow her real name and create confusion among audiences unfamiliar with her legacy.
Speaking to India Today, Suhas Suryavanshi, Mumbai President (Culture) of the NCP's Sharad Pawar faction, said Vithabai deserves to be recognised by the name through which she became a cultural icon.
"She is considered the Lavani Samratni of Maharashtra. She should be given the dignity she deserves. The film should be named after her," he said.
Here's the trailer of Eetha:
What does Vithabai's family want?
Interestingly, Vithabai's family has taken a similar position.
Her grandson, Mohit Narayangaonkar, who owns the Vithabai Narayangaonkar Tamasha Mandal, has clarified that the family is not against the film and welcomes a biopic on the legendary performer. Their only concern is that Vithabai's name should be reflected in the title.
According to Mohit, while family members and some people from rural Maharashtra occasionally referred to her as "Vitha" or "Eetha", she was known to the wider public as Vithabai Narayangaonkar.
The family believes using her full name would be a more fitting tribute to her life and achievements.
Apart from the title, some concerns have also been raised about how Vithabai's story will be portrayed on screen.
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NCP representatives have said that Vithabai is an important cultural figure for Maharashtra and that the filmmakers should ensure her legacy is handled with sensitivity and respect.
The party has also suggested that the makers organise a special screening for members of Vithabai's family and people associated with Maharashtra's folk arts before the film's release.
There are also claims that the filmmakers did not hold detailed discussions with the family before beginning the project, although the family has not opposed the film's production.
Who was Vithabai Narayangaonkar?
Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar is remembered as one of the finest lavani and tamasha artistes Maharashtra has produced. Often referred to as the Tamasha Samratni, she played a pivotal role in popularising the state's traditional folk art forms and remains an enduring figure in Marathi cultural history.
Known for her commanding stage presence and unwavering dedication to her craft, Vithabai's life has inspired generations of performers.One of the most widely shared stories about her is that she returned to the stage soon after giving birth, a moment often remembered as a testament to her unwavering commitment to her craft.
As of now, neither director Laxman Utekar nor producers Maddock Films has publicly responded to the NCP's request or the family's demand to change the title.
With the film slated to release on August 28, 2026, it remains to be seen whether the makers will retain the title Eetha or rename the biopic following the objections.
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