The debate began after the Nationalist Congress Party’s (NCP) Film and Culture Department questioned why the biopic was not named after Vithabai herself. Now, the late actor’s family has also raised similar concerns, saying that the title Eetha does not properly recognize the woman on whose life the film is based.
According to a Marathi report by TV9, the NCP’s Film and Culture Department believes that a biopic on Vithabai Narayangaonkar should have been titled Vitha or Vithabai, arguing that the title should directly honor the celebrated artist and her contribution to the cultural heritage of Maharashtra.
The suit has since been supported by Vithabai’s family. Her sons, Kailash Narayangaonkar and Rajesh Narayangaonkar, along with her grandson Mohit Narayangaonkar, have reportedly expressed their disappointment with the Eetha title.
The family has maintained that since the film chronicles Vithabai’s life, it should be named after him and properly recognize his legacy. They have also reportedly asked the creators for clarification on the reasoning behind the title and whether it truly reflects the iconic artist’s story.
Eetha stars Shraddha Kapoor in the lead role and is based on the extraordinary life and journey of Vithabai Narayangaonkar. Directed by Laxman Uketar, it will be released in theaters on August 28.
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