Summary
- Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Laxman Utekar, Eetha chronicles the extraordinary life of Vithabai Narayangaonkar, one of Maharashtra’s most celebrated Lavani and Tamasha performers.
- Vithabai Narayangaonkar, often honored with the title “Tamasha Samradini” or “Queen of Tamasha,” remains one of the most respected figures in Marathi folk culture.
- Scheduled to hit cinemas on August 28, 2026, the film has already captured the attention of audiences eager to witness Shraddha Kapoor bring the inspiring story of Vithabai Narayangaonkar to life on the silver screen.
After a two-year gap following the massive success of Stree 2, Bollywood star Shraddha Kapoor is gearing up for a grand return to the big screen with an ambitious and transformative project. The actress is set to headline Eetha, a biographical drama that promises to present her in one of the most challenging and career-defining roles of her journey in cinema.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Laxman Utekar, Eetha chronicles the extraordinary life of Vithabai Narayangaonkar, one of Maharashtra’s most celebrated Lavani and Tamasha performers. The film seeks to pay tribute to the legendary folk artist whose immense contribution helped preserve and popularize traditional Marathi performing arts across generations. Through an emotionally rich narrative, the movie aims to highlight the dedication, struggles, and achievements of a woman who became a cultural icon.
The first teaser of *Eetha* was recently unveiled in cinemas alongside *Cocktail 2*, starring Kriti Sanon, Rashmika Mandanna, and Shahid Kapoor. Running for 2 minutes and 18 seconds, the teaser offers audiences a captivating glimpse into the world of the legendary performer and has already generated considerable buzz among movie lovers.
The preview opens with a vibrant crowd eagerly waiting for a performance by the famous dancer Eetha. Rather than introducing the lead character through a conventional dramatic entry, the teaser takes an unexpected approach, immediately drawing viewers into the story. Shraddha Kapoor’s striking transformation into the iconic artist stands out from the very first frame. Her appearance, body language, and expressions suggest a deeply immersive portrayal that could become one of the most memorable performances of her career.
Vithabai Narayangaonkar, often honored with the title “Tamasha Samradini” or “Queen of Tamasha,” remains one of the most respected figures in Marathi folk culture. She dedicated her life to the traditional art forms of Lavani and Tamasha, overcoming social barriers and professional challenges to achieve legendary status. Her journey inspired countless artists and earned her widespread admiration throughout Maharashtra and beyond.
Among the many stories associated with her remarkable life, one incident has become particularly famous. According to popular accounts, Vithabai reportedly gave birth backstage during a performance and returned to the stage shortly afterward to continue entertaining the audience. This extraordinary episode has come to symbolize her unwavering dedication, resilience, and passion for her craft.
Spanning nearly five decades, Eetha traces Vithabai’s personal and professional journey, shedding light on the sacrifices she made to keep Maharashtra’s rich folk traditions alive. The film explores her relentless determination, the obstacles she encountered, and the enduring legacy she left behind for future generations of performers.
The project also boasts a strong supporting cast featuring Randeep Hooda, Nana Patekar, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, and Siddharth Jadhav. Their presence is expected to add depth and authenticity to the narrative, further raising expectations for the film.
With its powerful subject matter, cultural significance, and impressive cast, Eetha is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated releases of 2026. Scheduled to hit cinemas on August 28, 2026, the film has already captured the attention of audiences eager to witness Shraddha Kapoor bring the inspiring story of Vithabai Narayangaonkar to life on the silver screen.
We welcome your contributions! Submit your blogs, opinion pieces, press releases, news story pitches, and news features to [email protected] and [email protected]

