Shraddha Kapoor's Upcoming Movie Eetha Faces Title Controversy, NCP Demands Change In Name

Shraddha Kapoor's upcoming film Eetha has found itself at the centre of a controversy even before its release. The film is based on the life of legendary Marathi folk artist Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar. However, the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) and Vithabai's family have demanded that her name be included in the film's title. They believe this is essential to honour her immense contribution to Marathi folk art.

Shraddha Kapoor’s Eetha Title In Controversy, NCP Demands Change 

Shraddha Kapoor's Eetha, a biographical film inspired by the life of renowned Marathi folk artist Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar, has sparked controversy over its title.

The Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) and Vithabai's family have urged the filmmakers to include her name in the title, saying it is necessary to give proper recognition to her legacy and contribution to Marathi culture.

‘Her Name Deserves Equal Respect': NCP On Eetha Name 

NCP's Mumbai Cultural President, Suhas Suryawanshi, said Vithabai is remembered as Maharashtra's Lavani Samragyi and played a significant role in preserving Marathi Tamasha folk art.

He stated, "We are not against the making of the film. We only want her life to be portrayed correctly on the big screen. But her name deserves equal respect, so the film should carry her name in its title."

Babasaheb Patil, Maharashtra State President of the NCP's Film and Cultural Department, has written separate letters to director Laxman Utekar and Maddock Films, urging them to change the film's title from Eetha to either Vitha or Vithabai.

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Vithabai's Dedication To Her Art

Suhas Suryawanshi also highlighted Vithabai's extraordinary commitment to her profession by recalling a well-known incident from her life.

He said, "She was so dedicated to the stage that she continued performing even during pregnancy. On one occasion, she gave birth while performing on stage and returned within minutes to complete her act." 

According to him, this remarkable story reflects her unmatched passion for folk art and should be presented with authenticity in the film.

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NCP President Request For Special Screening Of Eetha Before Release

Suryawanshi further explained that the word Vitha is closely associated with Pandharpur, Vithabai's birthplace and an important religious town in Maharashtra. He said the film should also reflect this cultural connection accurately.

He also requested the makers to arrange a special screening for Vithabai's family and people associated with her life before the film's release. According to him, this would help ensure that her journey has been portrayed with honesty, dignity and respect.