Mumbai: The Eetha release date has been officially announced, with Shraddha Kapoor-starrer set to hit theatres on December 4, 2026. Directed by Laxman Utekar, the upcoming film is inspired by the remarkable life of legendary Lavani performer Vithabai Narayangaonkar and explores her journey, struggles and contribution to Maharashtra’s traditional performing arts.
The release date announcement comes after the makers unveiled the film’s first look and teaser in June. Shraddha Kapoor’s transformation into the character attracted considerable attention, particularly for her appearance, body language and portrayal of a performer deeply connected to the world of Lavani and Tamasha.
Eetha Teaser Offers a Glimpse Into Vithabai’s Life
The teaser presents Vithabai as a fiercely determined artist who refuses to let personal hardships come in the way of her passion for performance. One of its most striking sequences shows Shraddha’s character preparing for a Lavani performance while heavily pregnant.
Despite being warned about the risks involved, she remains determined to take the stage. The teaser then depicts her giving birth backstage before returning to perform. The dramatic sequence highlights the extraordinary commitment that defined the character’s relationship with her art.
The film is set across the 1950s to the 1980s, a period that allows the story to explore both Vithabai’s personal life and her professional journey. Through her story, the film is expected to portray the challenges faced by traditional performers while highlighting their contribution to Maharashtra’s cultural heritage.
Why Is Shraddha Kapoor’s Film Called Eetha?
The title Eetha is connected to Vithabai’s regional identity. She was reportedly known by this name in rural areas of Maharashtra, prompting the filmmakers to use it instead of her professional name.
The title had earlier sparked objections from members of Vithabai’s family, who wanted the film to be called Vittha or Vitthabai Narayangaonkar. The family’s concern was reportedly linked to representing the legendary performer through a title more directly associated with her public identity.
However, the matter was later resolved after director Laxman Utekar spoke with Mohit Narayangaonkar, Vithabai’s grandson. Utekar explained the cultural reasoning behind the title and its connection to the rural setting of the story. Following the discussion, Mohit said the family was satisfied with the explanation and no longer objected to the title.
Eetha Cast and Cultural Significance
Apart from Shraddha Kapoor, the film features Randeep Hooda, Nana Patekar, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub and Siddharth Jadhav in important roles. The ensemble cast has added to anticipation surrounding the project.
Vithabai Narayangaonkar is remembered as an important figure in Maharashtra’s Lavani and Tamasha traditions. Lavani combines music, poetry, dance and theatrical expression, while Tamasha has long been an important form of folk entertainment in the state.
The filmmakers are also expected to visit Narayangaon, a place closely associated with Vithabai and the Tamasha tradition, ahead of the theatrical release. Vithabai’s grandson has suggested that the film could also have its first premiere or a special screening in Narayangaon, an idea the filmmakers have reportedly received positively.
With the Eetha release date now locked for December 4, 2026, the film is expected to become one of Shraddha Kapoor’s major upcoming projects. Beyond its biographical narrative, the film aims to introduce audiences to Vithabai’s extraordinary legacy and the rich cultural world of Maharashtra’s Lavani and Tamasha traditions.
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