What is the story about?
Shraddha Kapoor is ready to make her comeback in theatres with Eetha, a biopic that tells the extraordinary life of legendary Marathi Tamasha and Lavani
performer Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar. The film, directed by Laxman Utekar and produced by Maddock Films and Kathputli Creations, chronicles the journey of a woman who rose from humble beginnings to become an important player in the folk theater tradition of Maharashtra. The trailer of the film dropped on October 30, taking fans into the intriguing world of Vithabai, the creative arts and culture of the state. The movie, also starring Randeep Hooda and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, releases in theatres on December 4, 2026.
Eetha Trailer Out
The trailer of Eetha shows Shraddha Kapoor in the titular role, and she clearly sheds her Stree image to present a more poignant character that's full of love, life and dance. Infact, it is a huge departure from the supernatural comedy world, as Eetha offers the actor an opportunity to play a real-life cultural icon. As the celebrated folk performer, she infuses life into the character amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Maharashtra's traditional stage performances. The trailer provides a more intimate look into Vithabai's journey, the obstacles she encountered and the cultural world where she carved her niche.
About Lavani in Eetha
Lavani is known for its expression and energetic dance. Tamasha is a traditional form of Marathi folk theatre which combines music, dance, performance, and storytelling. Vithabai’s performances left a lasting legacy, and she became famous for her contribution to these art forms.
The biographical drama is slated to explore the demands of her artistic career and the personal struggles that accompanied her journey. While makers have kept several details about the story under wraps, the film throws light on a performer whose life and work continue to be an integral part of Maharashtra’s cultural heritage.
Cast and Crew of Eetha
Eetha also stars Anant Joshi, Siddharth Jadhav, Akshara Singh, Ulka Gupta, and others. Randeep Hooda's first look poster earlier introduced him as Anna Sawant Merchant, Vithabai's husband.
Eetha is directed by Laxman Utekar and written by Kshitij Patwardhan. The film has been produced by Dinesh Vijan, Laxman Utekar and Karishma Sharma under Maddock Films and Kathputli Creations. Ajay–Atul has composed the music for the film, and Akash Agrawal is the cinematographer. The musical is expected to play an important role in bringing the world of Lavani and Tamasha on screen.
Eetha is scheduled to hit the big screen on December 4, 2026. The movie was originally planned for an August release, but it was later moved to December.
Who is Vithabai?
Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar (1935–2002) was a legendary Maharashtrian folk performer famous for her contributions to Tamasha and Lavani, traditional art forms that blend music, dance, and storytelling. She was born in Pandharpur, Maharashtra and started performing at an early age and eventually earned the title of Tamasha Samradni, which means the Empress of Tamasha. Vithabai was known to be a committed stage performer and is reported to have continued performing against overwhelming personal odds. She was recognised for her contribution to folk theater and in 2006, the Maharashtra government instituted the Vithabai Narayangaonkar Lifetime Achievement Award to honor senior Tamasha artistes and preserve the tradition.
