Shraddha Kapoor’s ‘Eetha’ Faces Title Controversy Over Family Objections

Actress Shraddha Kapoor’s highly anticipated biographical film, Eetha, has run into an unexpected hurdle months before its scheduled release. The movie is a cinematic tribute to the legendary Maharashtrian folk and Lavani artist, Vithabai Narayangaonkar. While the film’s initial teaser received immense praise from fans, the project has now sparked a major debate regarding its chosen title.

​Vithabai Narayangaonkar’s family, including her sons and grandson, along with political groups in Maharashtra, have raised strong objections to the name Eetha. They argue that a biopic honoring a towering cultural icon should directly carry her actual name. The family has formally requested the filmmakers to rethink their decision and change the title to Vitha or Vithabai. According to them, putting her name front and center is essential to giving the late artist the true historical recognition she deserves.

​”A biopic on Vithabai should carry her name, giving due credit to the woman whose work helped shape Maharashtra’s rich tradition,” the family expressed in reports.

​Directed by Laxman Utekar and produced by Maddock Films, Eetha also features Randeep Hooda and Mohammad Zeeshan Ayyub in key roles. The film is currently slated to hit theaters worldwide on August 28, 2026, though the makers have yet to release an official response regarding the title controversy.