Shraddha Kapoor has immersed herself in rigorous training for her role in the upcoming biopic, "Eetha," based on the life of legendary Tamasha artist Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar. The actress reportedly dedicated three months to mastering Lavani and Gavlan, two traditional Maharashtrian dance forms integral to Vithabai's performances.
The film, directed by Laxman Utekar, began shooting on November 1, 2025, near Nashik. "Eetha" aims to showcase the life of Vithabai, a highly respected figure in Marathi folk culture, whose career spanned from the 1950s to the 1980s. The film's title, "Eetha," reflects a regional pronunciation of "Vitha".
Sources indicate that Shraddha's Maharashtrian heritage, with her mother Shivangi Kolhapure being Maharashtrian, made her a natural choice for the role. Her existing dancing skills were also a significant advantage, as dance was a crucial element of Vithabai's life and performances. Lavani and Gavlan are folk dance forms originating in Maharashtra and are commonly used in Tamasha, which combines storytelling, singing, dance, and satire.
"Eetha" will depict Vithabai's journey from her early days with her family troupe in Pandharpur to her rise to fame. The film will also highlight the challenges faced by female performers during her time and how she broke barriers through her talent and determination. Despite receiving the President's Award twice, in 1957 and 1990, Vithabai faced financial difficulties later in life.
The initial filming schedule is capturing sequences of Kapoor as Vithabai in her prime in Aundhewadi, a village 50 kilometers from Nashik. Shraddha is seen wearing a saree in the 'kashta' style, and stylist Sheetal Iqbal Sharma has done extensive research to ensure the authenticity of the costumes. The team will continue shooting in Solapur, Satara, Nashik, and Kolhapur throughout November and December. Art directors Amit Ray and Subrata Chakraborty have chosen real locations for the shoot. Randeep Hooda and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub will also play crucial roles in the film. The music for "Eetha" is being composed by Atul-Ajay.
Laxman Utekar's "Eetha" is his next directorial venture after the Hindi film "Chhaava". Shraddha Kapoor's last film was "Stree 2" in 2024. "Eetha" is expected to be a blend of history, heritage, and heartfelt storytelling.
