Shraddha Kapoor's 'Eetha' Lands In Controversy: NCP, Vithabai Narayangaonkar's Family Raise Objections

Shraddha Kapoor's upcoming film Eetha has found itself at the centre of a controversy even before its theatrical release. When the teaser released, audience were impressed with Shraddha's striking transformation into legendary Lavani icon Vithabai Narayangaonkar. However, the film's title has now sparked objections from political leaders, as well as the late artist's family.

The Maharashtra unit of the Nationalist Congress Party's (NCP) Film and Cultural Department has urged the makers to reconsider the title. They have argued that a biopic should carry her real name. Members of Vithabai Narayangaonkar's family have also come forward and clarified that they fully support the film but want the title to honour her original identity.

NCP Requests Makers To Rename The Film

Babasaheb Patil, Maharashtra State President of the NCP's Film and Cultural Department, has written to director Laxman Utekar and production house Maddock Films, requesting that Eetha be renamed either Vitha or Vithabai.

Patil described Vithabai Narayangaonkar as one of Maharashtra's most celebrated Lavani and Tamasha performers and a recipient of the prestigious President's Award in his letter. He appreciated that her inspiring journey will be displayed in the big screen but, he maintained that using Eetha as the title does not recognise her legacy.

According to Patil, although many people in rural Maharashtra affectionately referred to the folk artist as "Eetha", she was nationally known as Vithabai Narayangaonkar throughout her career. He believes the film's title should reflect that identity so audiences across the country can associate the story with her actual name.

The letter further states that "Vithabai" symbolises Maharashtra's rich Lavani and Tamasha tradition and continues to inspire generations of performers. Patil has therefore appealed to the filmmakers to honour her contribution by renaming the project.

'People Should Know Her By Her Real Name'

Patil clarified that Vithabai Narayangaonkar was already a nationally recognised artist and a President's Award recipient. Although villagers lovingly addressed her as "Eetha", he believes a film backed by a major production house and featuring Shraddha Kapoor, will introduce her story to audiences across India and beyond. For that reason, he feels her official name should be used.

Patil also expressed concern that future generations may end up searching for "Eetha" instead of Vithabai Narayangaonkar which can potentially dilute her historical identity. According to him, retaining her original name would be a fitting tribute and would also bring happiness to her family.

'We Haven't Heard Back From The Makers'

Patil revealed that he has personally sent letters to both Laxman Utekar and Maddock Films. He also shared multiple news reports with the director over WhatsApp to explain the family's concerns.

Despite these efforts, he claimed there has been no official response so far.
However, later Patil got to know that the makers are already trying to address the issue. According to him, the title Vithabai is reportedly registered by someone else, and the filmmakers are said to be in talks with the title holder to acquire the rights.

Family Alleges They Were Never Properly Consulted

Apart from the title issue, Patil also alleged that the filmmakers neither secured life rights from Vithabai Narayangaonkar's family nor held detailed discussions with them before developing the project.

He further claimed that although the family repeatedly attempted to contact director Laxman Utekar, but no meeting was arranged.

Patil also stated that the film is reportedly based on a book about Vithabai, a publication that the family has previously objected to. They alleged that it contains factual inaccuracies and objectionable material.

"The family lives in a small village and does not have the means to fight lengthy legal battles. I am simply supporting them in raising their concerns," he said.

Grandson Clarifies That Family Is Not Opposing The Film

Vithabai Narayangaonkar's grandson, Mohit Narayangaonkar, who currently runs the Vithabai Narayangaonkar Tamasha Mandal, made it clear that the family has no objection to the film itself.

He said they are delighted that such a major project is being made on his grandmother's life and appreciate the effort to showcase Lavani and Tamasha on a larger platform. Their only request is that the title should be changed to either Vitha Narayangaonkar or Vithabai Narayangaonkar.

Mohit explained that while close acquaintances in rural Maharashtra often referred to his grandmother as "Vitha" or "Eetha", she built her public identity as Vithabai Narayangaonkar. This is the name by which she should continue to be remembered.

'Laxman Utekar Had Called Me'

Mohit also shared that Laxman Utekar had contacted him when the film was first announced.
He claimed that the director explained him about the film and how it is aimed to introduce Vithabai's contribution to Lavani and Tamasha across the world.
However, Mohit said there have been no follow-up discussions since then. He added that he has also spoken with line producer Anand Kale and requested a meeting with the family.

"I'll wait for a few more days. If nobody reaches out by then, we'll decide our next step," he said.