Bollywood is set to celebrate one of Maharashtra’s greatest folk icons as Randeep Hooda and Shraddha Kapoor come together for filmmaker Laxman Utekar’s next directorial venture — a biopic based on the life of legendary Lavani performer Vithabai Narayangaonkar.
Tentatively titled Eetha, the film will chronicle the inspiring yet tumultuous journey of Vithabai, who rose from humble beginnings to become a revered name in Marathi folk theatre and Lavani performances.
A source close to the development shared, “The shoot commences at the end of this month in Mumbai. Randeep plays the romantic lead opposite Shraddha; the makers are extremely confident about the casting, as both Randeep and Shraddha bring depth and versatility that fit perfectly with Utekar’s vision.”
The film is based on the journey of Vithabai Narayangaonkar, one of Maharashtra’s most revered Tamasha performers. Born in July 1935 in Pandharpur, located in Solapur district, Vithabai came from a family of traditional folk performers.
She began her career as a child and went on to become an iconic figure in the world of Lavani and Tamasha theatre. Known for her commanding stage presence, expressive voice, and high-energy performances, Vithabai’s contribution to Indian folk culture earned her two President’s Awards, first in 1957 and later in 1990.
