Following the massive success of Stree 2, Shraddha Kapoor is all set to surprise audiences with a completely different role in her upcoming film Eetha. Instead of returning to the horror-comedy space that made her character Stree a household name, the actress will portray legendary Maharashtrian Lavani and Tamasha performer Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar in a biographical musical drama.
In an interview with News18, Shraddha discussed what attracted her to the project and why she wanted to explore a different cinematic world. The actress revealed that the character's individuality, artistic journey and extraordinary life made the script particularly appealing.
1. Shraddha Wanted to Explore a Completely Different World
One of the biggest reasons Shraddha Kapoor chose Eetha was the opportunity to step into an entirely different world after Stree 2.
The actress has been associated with the Maddock Films horror-comedy universe through the successful Stree franchise. However, Eetha offers a contrasting experience, taking her into the world of Maharashtra's traditional folk theatre and dance.
Shraddha found the character interesting because of her relationship with art and the courage she displayed throughout her life.
The actress has described the experience as an exciting opportunity to explore a character whose individuality and artistic journey make her unforgettable.
The film also marks her reunion with Maddock Films after the success of Stree and Stree 2, although the genre and storytelling approach are very different.
2. Playing Legendary Lavani Performer Vithabai Was a Major Attraction
Eetha is inspired by the life of Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar, one of Maharashtra's most celebrated Lavani and Tamasha performers.
Vithabai earned recognition for her extraordinary contribution to Marathi folk theatre. Her journey was filled with artistic achievements, personal struggles and sacrifices, making her life an important story from Maharashtra's cultural history.
For Shraddha, portraying such a personality offered an opportunity to understand an artist whose contribution deserves wider recognition.
The film explores the world of Lavani and Tamasha, bringing traditional music, dance, costumes and stage performances to the big screen.
Through the character, Shraddha also gets an opportunity to showcase a different performance style, particularly through the film's elaborate dance sequences.
3. A Character Driven by Courage and Individuality
Another factor that attracted Shraddha to Eetha was the strength of its central character.
Vithabai's story is not limited to her popularity as a performer. It also explores the personal challenges she faced while building her identity in a demanding artistic environment.
The film presents her as a woman whose dedication to her craft remained central to her life, even when circumstances became difficult.
Shraddha said that the more director Laxman Utekar explained the character, the more connected she felt to Vithabai's world.
For the actress, playing someone with such a distinctive personality and relationship with her art was an opportunity to explore a new dimension of acting.
What Is Eetha About?
Directed by Laxman Utekar, Eetha is a biographical musical drama based on the life of Vithabai Narayangaonkar.
The film features Shraddha Kapoor in the lead role, alongside Nana Patekar, Randeep Hooda, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub and Siddharth Jadhav.
The trailer showcases the colourful world of Lavani and Tamasha performances while also highlighting the emotional struggles behind the applause and fame.
Produced by Dinesh Vijan and Laxman Utekar, the film is presented by Maddock Films and Kathputli Creations. Its music has been composed by Ajay–Atul.
The film is scheduled to release in cinemas on December 4, 2026.
Shraddha Kapoor's Career After Stree 2
Stree 2 became a major commercial success and strengthened Shraddha Kapoor's position in the Hindi film industry. Her return in Eetha represents a noticeable shift in the kind of character she is choosing to portray.
Rather than repeating a familiar screen image, the actress is stepping into a culturally rooted biographical drama that requires her to explore a different performance tradition.
With Eetha, Shraddha aims to bring the story of an influential folk artist to a wider audience. The film also offers an opportunity to introduce the cultural richness of Lavani and Tamasha to viewers beyond Maharashtra.
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