Shraddha Kapoor and Randeep Hooda to Bring Lavani Legend Vithabai Narayangaonkar’s Story to Life in Laxman Utekar’s Next

The biopic, reportedly titled “Eetha,” will celebrate Maharashtra’s folk culture with Shraddha in an intense new avatar and Randeep as her romantic lead.

Director Laxman Utekar, fresh off the success of Chhaava, is now preparing for his next ambitious project — a biopic based on the life of the legendary Lavani and Tamasha performer Vithabai Narayangaonkar. The film, reportedly titled Eetha, will feature Shraddha Kapoor in the titular role and Randeep Hooda opposite her. Shooting for the film is expected to begin in Mumbai by the end of this month.

Shraddha Kapoor has already started learning Lavani, the high-energy traditional dance form of Maharashtra, to authentically portray Vithabai. Randeep Hooda, known for his versatility and depth, joins the cast as the male lead. The makers are confident that both actors’ strong performances and range will bring director Utekar’s vision to life.

Vithabai Narayangaonkar, born in 1935 in Pandharpur, was one of Maharashtra’s most celebrated folk artists. Known as the “Tamasha Samradini” or Empress of Tamasha, she dedicated her life to preserving and popularizing Lavani and Tamasha across the state. Her magnetic stage presence and deeply emotional performances made her a cultural icon. Vithabai received two President’s Awards — in 1957 and 1990 — for her outstanding contribution to Indian folk art.

The upcoming biopic aims to portray her rise from humble beginnings to becoming one of Maharashtra’s most beloved performers, while also highlighting the struggles faced by folk artists behind the spotlight. It will explore the vibrant yet challenging world of Tamasha and Lavani, capturing the essence of Maharashtra’s traditional performing arts.

For Shraddha Kapoor, this film marks another significant step in her career following the success of Stree 2 in 2024. Her fans are particularly excited to see her in such a culturally rich and performance-driven role. Meanwhile, Randeep Hooda, known for his transformative performances, brings an added emotional depth to the story.

With Utekar’s direction, an authentic depiction of Lavani culture, and a strong emotional core, Eetha promises to be both a moving tribute to Vithabai Narayangaonkar and a celebration of Maharashtra’s folk heritage.

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