Shraddha Kapoor Steps Into Vithabai’s Shoes
Bollywood’s favourite girl-next-door is about to get a major makeover. Shraddha Kapoor is all set to headline ‘Eetha’, a biographical drama inspired by the legendary Lavani and Tamasha performer Vithabai Narayangaonkar. The film, produced by Dinesh Vijan and directed by Laxman Utekar, is slated for a grand release on August 28, 2026 — perfectly timed with the Rakshabandhan holiday weekend.
This isn’t just another commercial flick for Shraddha. After the blockbuster success of ‘Stree 2’, the actress is ready to dive deep into a role that demands serious acting chops. Vithabai, one of Maharashtra’s most iconic folk artists, dedicated her life to preserving traditional performance arts. For Shraddha, this is a chance to showcase a side of her talent that fans haven’t seen before — a performance-driven narrative rooted in regional culture and history.
Joining her on this journey are Randeep Hooda and Mohd. Zeeshan Ayyub. Hooda, known for his intense method acting, has reportedly undergone a physical transformation for the film. This marks the first on-screen pairing of Kapoor and Hooda, and industry insiders are already buzzing about the chemistry between these two powerhouse performers. Ayyub, meanwhile, brings his trademark nuance to a pivotal supporting role, adding depth to what promises to be a richly layered story.
Behind the Scenes: Challenges and Comebacks
Bringing Vithabai’s story to life hasn’t been a smooth ride. Production kicked off in late 2025, with schedules in Pune and Mumbai capturing the essence of Maharashtra. But things hit a snag when Shraddha suffered a toe injury on set, forcing the team to pause filming and reshuffle their timeline. The shoot eventually resumed, stretching into 2026 to accommodate the delay.
Despite the hiccup, the team is determined to deliver something special. Director Laxman Utekar and producer Dinesh Vijan are riding high on the success of their last collaboration, ‘Chhaava’, which became one of the biggest Hindi hits of 2025. Maddock Films has built a reputation for backing stories rooted in Indian history and culture, and ‘Eetha’ fits right into that vision. The film’s focus on a lesser-known but deeply influential figure like Vithabai could strike a chord with audiences hungry for narratives that celebrate India’s artistic heritage.
The choice of a Rakshabandhan release isn’t just about box office strategy — though the holiday weekend certainly helps with footfalls. It’s also about connecting a culturally resonant story with a festival that celebrates family and tradition. For a film centered on a folk artist who shaped Maharashtra’s performing arts, the timing feels almost poetic.
What Makes ‘Eetha’ a Must-Watch
Biographical dramas have become a staple in Indian cinema, but ‘Eetha’ stands out for its focus on a figure who isn’t a household name across the country. Vithabai Narayangaonkar’s legacy in Lavani and Tamasha is immense, yet her story remains largely untold on the big screen. That’s where Shraddha Kapoor comes in — stepping into the shoes of a woman who fought personal battles and artistic triumphs to preserve a dying art form.
For Shraddha, this role is a departure from the mainstream commercial projects that have defined her career. After ‘Stree 2’, audience expectations have shifted, and she’s ready to take on a challenge that demands more than just star power. A performance-driven biopic like ‘Eetha’ could be the turning point that cements her as a versatile actor capable of carrying weighty, character-driven narratives.
With Laxman Utekar at the helm, known for his ability to blend strong storytelling with commercial appeal, and a cast that includes Randeep Hooda and Mohd. Zeeshan Ayyub, ‘Eetha’ has all the ingredients for a memorable cinematic experience. As the release date approaches, fans can expect more updates on this ambitious project that promises to shine a spotlight on one of Maharashtra’s most cherished cultural icons.