Laxman Utekar will be returning to theatres with yet another chapter from Maharashtra’s rich history. After Chhaava, based on Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the director gears up to present the story of Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar in . Shraddha Kapoor plays the lead role, with Randeep Hooda joining her. The first teaser of the biopic was premiered exclusively with Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna’s Cocktail 2 in theatres today. As soon as the first show began, the audience was treated to a surprising and impressive glimpse of Shraddha as a lavani dancer.

The Eetha teaser focuses on one of the important chapters of  ’s life. Shraddha transforms into the character from the first frame. In the teaser, she can be seen heavily pregnant with her child. Despite the pregnancy, she continues performing on stage. However, during one such show, she understands that the baby is due. Unable to leave the performance mid-way, she maintains her cool and goes backstage to deliver the child. Vithabai cuts the umbilical cord with a stone and resumes her performance, leaving the audience stunned. They praise her for her dedication and courage.

 

As per historical events, the show where she performed was immediately stopped for her to rest after the delivery. Maintaining the story’s authenticity, the film was shot across several locations including Madh Island in Mumbai, Solapur, Aundhewadi, Satara, Nashik, and Bhor. During the shoot, Shraddha fractured her left foot while filming an important sequence.

Vithabai, a popular Tamasha artiste from Maharashtra, played an important role in shaping the folk dance’s legacy. Born in a family of artists in Pandharpur, Bhau-Bapu Mang Narayangaonkar was the family troupe run by her father and uncle. Narayan Khude, her grandfather, was its pioneer. Vithabai grew up around various forms of songs like Lavanya, Gavlan, Bhedik, etc.

Called the ‘Tamasha Samradini’ (Tamasha Empress), Narayangaonkar took the family legacy forward when her father went through a rough phase. She won the most prestigious awards, including the President’s Award in 1957 and 1990. Despite the acclaim and popularity, Vithabai faced monetary struggles. As per reports, her hospital bills post-death were cleared by donors.

Eetha will hit theatres worldwide on August 28, 2026. The teaser is currently running only in theatres. It will be officially launched soon.