Mumbai: The recently released teaser of the upcoming biographical drama Eetha has generated significant buzz among moviegoers, not only for its powerful visuals but also for introducing a new generation to the extraordinary life of legendary Lavani artist Vithabai Narayangaonkar.
Starring Shraddha Kapoor in the lead role, the film chronicles the remarkable journey of Vithabai, one of Maharashtra’s most celebrated Tamasha and Lavani performers, whose dedication to her art became the stuff of legend.
The teaser opens with an enthusiastic crowd chanting “Eetha” as they wait for the star performer to take the stage. It then cuts to an intense childbirth scene featuring Shraddha Kapoor, accompanied by a powerful voiceover: “If I die lying down, I will be remembered as helpless. But if I die dancing, I will become an example.” The dramatic sequence is followed by scenes depicting Vithabai’s rise to fame and her unwavering commitment to performing despite immense personal challenges.
One of the most talked-about moments in the teaser recreates a story that has long been associated with Vithabai’s life. According to popular accounts, she went into labour backstage during a performance, gave birth, cut the umbilical cord herself, and returned to the stage shortly afterwards to complete her act. Whether viewed as folklore or fact, the story has become symbolic of her extraordinary dedication to her craft.
Known as the “Tamasha Queen,” Vithabai was a towering figure in Maharashtra’s folk theatre tradition. Born into a family deeply rooted in Tamasha, she began performing at a young age under the guidance of her father, who ran a travelling theatre troupe. By the age of ten, she was already captivating audiences with her singing, dancing and stage presence.
Her popularity extended far beyond folk theatre circles. It is widely believed that legendary filmmaker Raj Kapoor once offered her an opportunity to work in films. However, Vithabai reportedly declined the offer, choosing instead to remain devoted to preserving and promoting the traditional art forms of Lavani and Tamasha.
Throughout her career, she played a crucial role in keeping Maharashtra’s folk performance traditions alive at a time when modern entertainment was rapidly changing audience preferences. Her contributions earned her widespread acclaim and several prestigious honours, including recognition from the President of India on multiple occasions.
The teaser of Eetha has received an enthusiastic response online, with many viewers praising Shraddha Kapoor’s transformation and the film’s attempt to bring the story of an iconic folk artist to mainstream audiences.
The film is scheduled for theatrical release on August 28 and is expected to clash at the box office with the highly anticipated action thriller Toxic, featuring South Indian superstar Yash. The simultaneous release of two major films has already sparked excitement among cinema enthusiasts.
More than two decades after her passing in 2002, Vithabai Narayangaonkar’s legacy continues to inspire performers and audiences alike. Through Eetha, her story of resilience, passion and artistic devotion is set to reach a wider national audience, ensuring that the legend of Maharashtra’s Tamasha Queen lives on.
