The controversy surrounding the title of Shraddha Kapoor’s upcoming biographical drama Eetha has taken a new turn, with legendary Lavani artiste Vithabai Narayangaonkar’s eldest daughter, Mangala Bansode Karavadikar, publicly supporting the filmmakers. Her statement comes amid criticism from political circles and reports claiming that members of Vithabai’s family were unhappy with the title of the film.
Mangala Bansode Karavadikar, a 75-year-old Tamasha artiste and recipient of the President’s Award, dismissed the ongoing speculation and clarified that the family has no objection to the title Eetha. She explained that “Eetha” was an affectionate name by which villagers fondly addressed her mother during her Lavani performances, making it an appropriate choice for the biopic.
Speaking about the issue, Mangala revealed that she had requested her grandson, Mohit Narayangaonkar, not to issue any further statements regarding the controversy. She also shared that filmmaker Laxman Utekar had consulted her during the film’s development, and she had informed him about the significance of the nickname. According to her, the title accurately reflects how audiences lovingly remembered the legendary performer.
Mangala further expressed happiness that the film will introduce a new generation to Vithabai Narayangaonkar’s extraordinary contribution to Lavani and Marathi folk theatre. Having herself performed on stage since the age of seven, she recalled hearing audiences affectionately call her mother “Eetha” throughout her childhood and believes the film will celebrate her legacy in the right spirit.
The title dispute gained momentum after the Nationalist Congress Party’s (NCP) Film and Cultural Department reportedly questioned why the biopic was not named after Vithabai Narayangaonkar herself. Some reports had also suggested that members of the late artiste’s family were dissatisfied with the decision, but Mangala’s statement has now contradicted those claims.
Directed by Laxman Utekar, Eetha stars Shraddha Kapoor in the role of the iconic Lavani performer, alongside Randeep Hooda and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub. The much-awaited biographical drama is scheduled to release in theatres on August 28, with fans eagerly awaiting Shraddha’s transformation into one of Maharashtra’s most celebrated folk artists.