📌 Key Points
- Shraddha Kapoor stars as Lavani legend Vithabai Narayangavkar in the upcoming film ‘Eetha’.
- Vithabai was known for her unwavering commitment, performing even during pregnancy.
- She was honored with the President’s award and known as “Tamasha Samradini.”
- The government instituted the Vithabai Narayangavkar Lifetime Achievement Award in her memory.
Shraddha Kapoor is set to portray the iconic Lavani legend Vithabai Narayangavkar in the film ‘Eetha.’ The movie highlights Vithabai’s extraordinary dedication to her art, including her remarkable act of performing while pregnant, a testament to her unyielding spirit and commitment.
Vithabai Narayangavkar: The Lavani Empress
Vitha took the legacy forward from a young age and became interested in dance and performance. She was surrounded by the echo of Lavani songs, Gavlan performances and other traditional dance forms, which she began to learn. Soon, she took to the stage to help her family during a financial strain, and her expressive performance became a crowd-puller. Trouble began when she married Maruti Sawant, and their marriage was tumultuous. She still continued to perform, taking lavani and tamasha to wider audiences.
A Life Dedicated to Art, Despite Hardship
People from several parts of the state flocked to watch her performances, which were a colourful amalgamation of music, dance and storytelling. For her artistry, she was bestowed with the prestigious President’s award in the Tamasha genre. She also began to be known as “Tamasha Samradini” (Tamasha Empress) by her fans, and the government later instituted the annual Vithabai Narayangavkar Lifetime Achievement Award in her memory in 2006. Her figure became a symbol of dedication and bravery in Maharashtra. She died on January 15, 2002, at the age of 66 in Narayangaon, Maharashtra, following a paralytic attack.
Shraddha Kapoor Brings Legend to Life in ‘Eetha’
In Eetha , Shraddha steps in to play the legendary artiste. The teaser indicated that the film will combine the episode of her pregnancy, which became a testament to her dedication and artistry. The film will feature music composed by Ajay-Atul, and the songs will be choreographed by Vaibhavi Merchant. The unusual title, Eetha, actually comes from the local Marathi pronunciation of her nickname, Vitha. The film is set to release in theatres on August 26.
Vithabai Narayangavkar’s legacy as a ‘Tamasha Empress’ continues to inspire, with her story now reaching new audiences through Shraddha Kapoor’s portrayal in ‘Eetha.’ Her life remains a powerful symbol of artistic devotion.
