A still from the trailer of Shraddha Kapoor's Eetha (Photo: YouTube/Maddock Films)

Eetha trailer: Shraddha Kapoor brings Maharashtra's Tamasha queen to life

Shraddha Kapoor steps into the shoes of Maharashtra's legendary Lavani performer Vithabai in Eetha. The trailer offers a glimpse into the artist's extraordinary journey, struggles and legacy.

by · India Today

In Short

  • The film charts Vithabai’s rise from humble beginnings in Pandharpur
  • Randeep Hooda plays Anna Sawant Merchant, the celebrated performer’s husband
  • Ajay-Atul’s music recreates Maharashtra’s energetic Lavani and rich Tamasha traditions

The trailer of Eetha, starring Shraddha Kapoor as renowned Marathi folk performer Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar, was unveiled on October 30. Directed by Laxman Utekar, the biographical drama marks Shraddha's return to the big screen after Stree 2 and is scheduled to release in theatres on December 4, 2026.

The trailer offers a glimpse into Vithabai's journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the most celebrated names in Maharashtra's folk theatre tradition. Set against the vibrant cultural backdrop of the state, it features elaborate stage performances, music and dance, while also touching upon the personal struggles and challenges that shaped her life.

In Eetha, Shraddha as Vithabai plays an artist whose life revolved around performance, dance and her passion for the stage. The trailer showcases her journey as a performer, highlighting both her artistic achievements and personal battles.

Lavani, known for its energetic movements and expressive style, is a traditional dance form of Maharashtra. Tamasha, meanwhile, is a folk theatre tradition that brings together music, dance, storytelling and performance. Vithabai made a significant contribution to both art forms and earned widespread recognition for her work.

The film also features Randeep Hooda and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub in pivotal roles. Hooda's first-look poster introduced him as Anna Sawant Merchant, Vithabai's husband. The supporting cast includes Anant Joshi, Siddharth Jadhav, Akshara Singh and Ulka Gupta, among others. Kshitij Patwardhan has penned the film.

Eetha is produced by Dinesh Vijan, Laxman Utekar and Karishma Sharma under the banners of Maddock Films and Kathputli Creations. The music is composed by Ajay-Atul, while Akash Agrawal has handled the cinematography. The music is expected to be central to the film's recreation of the Lavani and Tamasha traditions.

The film was initially slated for an August release but was later postponed to December 4, 2026.

Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar, who lived from 1935 to 2002, was born in Pandharpur and began performing at a young age. She eventually earned the title of 'Tamasha Samradni', meaning the 'Empress of Tamasha'. Through Shraddha's portrayal, Eetha revisits the life and legacy of an artist who played a significant role in preserving and popularising Maharashtra's folk performance traditions.

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