Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Jul 4: The controversy surrounding the title of Shraddha Kapoor's upcoming film Eetha has been resolved after director Laxman Utekar clarified the reason behind the name to the family of legendary Lavani artist Vitthabai Narayangaonkar.

The film, a biographical drama inspired by the life of Vitthabai Narayangaonkar, had drawn objections from her family, who felt it should have been titled Vittha instead of Eetha.

However, Mohit Narayangaonkar, Vitthabai's grandson, said the family was satisfied with the director's explanation and had withdrawn its objection.

Speaking to NDTV, Mohit said Utekar explained that Vitthabai was popularly known as "Eetha" in rural areas during her early years, which inspired the film's title.

"We had requested that the film's title be changed, but he explained that in the rural areas, Vitthabai was earlier known as 'Eetha'. That is why they chose this title for the film. We have no problem with it now," he said.

Mohit also praised the film for portraying the Tamasha and Lavani community in a positive light.

"The film has been made in a very positive way. It presents the Tamasha and Lavani community in a very positive light. We are satisfied. There is no issue," he added.

Ahead of the film's theatrical release on Aug 28, Shraddha Kapoor and the film's team are expected to visit Narayangaon, regarded as the cultural centre of Tamasha.

Mohit said the visit would take place before the film's release and revealed that he had requested the makers to hold the premiere in Narayangaon.

According to him, Utekar responded positively and assured that the team would visit the village.

Asked whether Shraddha Kapoor would also be part of the visit, Mohit confirmed that she would join the team.

The proposed visit was also confirmed by Babasaheb Patil, state president of the Film and Cultural Department of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), who said Shraddha Kapoor and Laxman Utekar are expected to meet members of Vitthabai's family, although the detailed schedule is yet to be finalised.

Directed by Laxman Utekar, Eetha chronicles the life and legacy of Vitthabai Narayangaonkar, with Shraddha Kapoor portraying the legendary Lavani performer. The film explores her journey through the world of Tamasha and Lavani, highlighting her struggles, resilience and contribution to Maharashtra's folk art tradition.

The film is scheduled to release in theatres on Aug 28.