Etha: As the discussion on Shraddha Kapoor’s film intensified, NCP demanded to keep Vithabai’s name in the title.
Actress Shraddha Kapoor’s Itha faced title controversy as NCP and Vithabai Narayangaonkar’s family demanded inclusion of the famous Marathi folk artiste’s name.
actor shraddha kapoor etaThe upcoming biopic based on the life of famous Marathi folk artist Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar is at the center of a controversy over its title. While the aim of the film is to bring forward the story of Pratistha Lavani And pageant As a presenter to a wide audience, questions are now being raised as to whether his name and legacy have been given the recognition they deserve. Vithabai’s family as well as the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) have demanded that her name be included in the title of the film.
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speaking specifically to India Today Regarding the film and the importance of preserving Vithabai’s legacy, NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) Mumbai president (culture) Suhas Suryavanshi raised concerns over the title and the artist’s portrayal. Calling her a great figure of Marathi folk culture, he said that he appreciated the effort to bring Vithabai’s journey on the big screen, but filmmakers should ensure that her dignity and contribution are respected.
“he is considered Lavani Samratani Of Maharashtra. She was an excellent artist in Marathi pageant Or Marathi folk industry. They have to take care of the dignity of this great artist and that is why we are talking about (changing the title). She should be given the respect she deserves. The film should be named after him,” he insisted.
‘She returned to the stage after giving birth to the child’
Suryavanshi further talked about her dedication towards performing and recalled the story related to Vithabai’s commitment towards the stage. He shared, “She entertained people with her special attitude, approach, dedication, devotion to such a level that even when she was pregnant with her child, she performed. She was not forced or coerced, but she thought it was my duty and I had to perform. She went into labor, delivered her baby and then immediately, within a fraction of a minute, she came back on stage and completed her act.”
Watch the teaser of the film here:
Questions on title and inheritance
Suryavanshi also spoke about the significance of the name ‘Vitha’ and its roots with Vithabai and its connection to her birthplace Pandharpur. He said that the place is considered sacred and questioned why director Laxman Utekar did not highlight these aspects.
Discussing Vithabai’s legacy, Suryavanshi said the concern is not limited to the title alone. Referring to fears of fictionalisation in the biopic, he said the makers should also ensure that people associated with Vithabai’s life get a chance to watch the film before its release. He said, “He is the pride of Marathi people, so it would be appropriate for the filmmakers to arrange a show for us and the family. Only then should they go ahead with the release.”
About Vithabai Narayangaonkar
Vithabai Narayangaonkar is remembered as one of the most famous folk artistes of Maharashtra and popularly known as Tamasha SamrataniHe was praised for his extraordinary dedication to the arts. Her life is marked by many stories that illustrate her commitment, including the widely known story of returning to the stage minutes after giving birth during a performance.
We contacted director Laxman Utekar for comment, but did not hear back till the time of writing the story.
The film is scheduled to release in theaters on 28 August 2026.