Explained: Why Shraddha Kapoor’s Itha has created controversy in Maharashtra?
Shraddha Kapoor’s upcoming film Itha, which portrays the life of famous Lavani artiste Vithabai Narayangaonkar, has sparked controversy in Maharashtra over its title. Both the NCP and Vithabai’s family urged the film’s name to be changed to reflect her real name, emphasizing respect for her cultural heritage.
Actor Shraddha Kapoor’s upcoming film even before it hits theatres. eta She has come into controversy regarding her title. Directed by Laxman Utekar, the biopic is based on the life of renowned Lavani and Tamasha artiste Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar, one of the most respected folk artists of Maharashtra.
While the teaser has been praised for Shraddha’s stunning transformation, the title of the film has also come under scrutiny. Both the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Vithabai’s family members have objected to it, sparking debate even before the film’s release.
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So, why has the title sparked controversy? See here what the controversy is about.
The Maharashtra unit of the NCP’s film and cultural department has formally requested the producers to change the title of the film. eta Either to Vitha or Vithabai.
According to the party, Vithabai Narayangaonkar was a nationally recognized artist and recipient of prestigious honours. He argued that a film based on his life should feature his real name so that future generations can recognize and remember his contribution to the folk culture of Maharashtra.
The party has emphasized that it is not opposing the film. Instead, he wants the title to reflect the identity of the woman whose story is being told.
Why the name? eta Are you being interrogated?
Those objecting to the title acknowledged that some people in rural Maharashtra affectionately called Vithabai “Eetha”. However, she pointed out that she was publicly known as Vithabai Narayangaonkar throughout her career.
NCP leaders are afraid of its use eta Because the title may overshadow her real name and cause confusion among viewers unfamiliar with her heritage.
Speaking to India Today, NCP’s Sharad Pawar faction’s Mumbai president (culture) Suhas Suryavanshi said Vithabai deserves to be recognized by the name through which she became a cultural icon.
He said, “She is considered the Lavani Samratni of Maharashtra. She should be given the respect she deserves. The film should be named after her.”
Watch the trailer of Eetha here:
What does Vithabai’s family want?
Interestingly, Vithabai’s family has also adopted a similar stance.
Her grandson, Mohit Narayangaonkar, who owns the Vithabai Narayangaonkar Tamasha Mandal, has clarified that the family is not against the film and welcomes the biopic on the great artiste. His only concern is that Vithabai’s name should be reflected in the title.
According to Mohit, while family members and some people in rural Maharashtra sometimes referred to her as “Vitha” or “Eetha”, she was known to the wider public as Vithabai Narayangaonkar.
The family believes that using his full name would be a more appropriate tribute to his life and achievements.
Apart from the title, some concerns have also been raised about how Vithabai’s story will be portrayed on screen.
NCP representatives have said that Vithabai is an important cultural figure for Maharashtra and filmmakers should ensure that her legacy is handled with sensitivity and respect.
The party has also suggested that the producers organize a special screening for Vithabai’s family members and people associated with the folk art of Maharashtra before the release of the film.
There are also claims that the filmmakers did not have detailed discussions with the family before starting the project, although the family has not opposed the production of the film.
Who was Vithabai Narayangaonkar?
Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar is remembered as one of the finest Lavani and Tamasha artistes of Maharashtra. often known as Tamasha SamrataniShe played an important role in popularizing the state’s traditional folk art forms and remains an enduring figure in Marathi cultural history.
Known for her commanding stage presence and unwavering dedication to her art, Vithabai’s life has inspired generations of artists. One of the most widely shared stories about her is that she returned to the stage shortly after giving birth, a moment often remembered as proof of her unwavering commitment to her art.
So far, neither director Laxman Utekar nor producer Maddock Films have publicly responded to NCP’s request or the family’s demand to change the title.
The film is scheduled to release on August 28, 2026, it remains to be seen whether the makers will retain the title or not eta Or change the name of the biopic after objections.