The official trailer for the highly anticipated biographical film Eetha, featuring actor Shraddha Kapoor in the titular role, has been released, offering audiences a glimpse into the vibrant world of Maharashtra’s traditional performing arts. The film serves as a biopic on the life of Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar, a legendary figure in the history of Tamasha and Lavani—the culturally rich folk theatre traditions of the state. Directed by Laxman Utekar, the project marks a significant return to the silver screen for Kapoor, who takes on a role distinct from her previous work, portraying an emotional and energetic character rooted in historical legacy.
Released on October 30, the trailer showcases Kapoor's transition into the life of the performer known as the 'Tamasha Samradni' or 'Empress of Tamasha'. The narrative captures Vithabai’s journey from her humble origins in Pandharpur to becoming a formidable force in the folk theatre circuit. The film promises an immersive look at the colour, music, and storytelling that define the Tamasha genre, while simultaneously delving into the personal challenges and professional hurdles the artist faced during her lifetime. Born in 1935 and passing in 2002, Vithabai began performing during her childhood, eventually crafting a legacy that continues to be celebrated today.
Beyond the lead performance, Eetha features an ensemble cast, including Randeep Hooda, who portrays the character of Anna Sawant Merchant, Vithabai’s husband. Other notable actors in the production include Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Anant Joshi, Siddharth Jadhav, Akshara Singh, and Ulka Gupta. The film is produced by Dinesh Vijan, Laxman Utekar, and Karishma Sharma under the banners of Maddock Films and Kathputli Creations. The screenplay, penned by Kshitij Patwardhan, aims to balance the demands of Vithabai’s high-pressure artistic career with the private battles she endured throughout her path to acclaim.
Music plays a pivotal role in the production, with the soundtrack composed by the duo Ajay-Atul. Given that the film centers on the expressive and rhythmic demands of Lavani and Tamasha, the musical score is expected to be instrumental in recreating the authentic atmosphere of these traditional stage shows. Cinematography for the film is handled by Akash Agrawal, who aims to capture the visual grandeur of the folk performances. Originally slated for an August release, the production schedule was adjusted, and the film is now set to arrive in theatres nationwide on December 4, 2026.
For audiences familiar with Kapoor’s filmography, the trailer signals a deliberate departure from the persona she cultivated in her previous roles, such as in Stree. In Eetha, the focus shifts toward the complexities of historical biography and the emotional weight of a life dedicated to a dying or evolving art form. As the film nears its release date, it has generated interest regarding how it will depict the intersection of regional folk culture and modern cinematic storytelling. The production team, led by director Laxman Utekar, has expressed a commitment to honoring the historical significance of Vithabai’s life and her enduring contributions to Maharashtra’s cultural identity.
The release of the trailer has drawn attention to the broader significance of preserving regional folk arts like Tamasha, which integrate music, dance, and complex narratives. By highlighting a figure as influential as Vithabai, the film provides a platform to revisit the struggles and triumphs of female performers in the traditional theatre landscape. As the December premiere approaches, both fans and historians of Indian cinema are looking forward to seeing how this narrative brings the legendary life of the 'Tamasha Samradni' to a contemporary audience.
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