Shraddha KapoorIts upcoming film ‘Etha’ has left its recent title controversy behind. According to reports, legendary lavani artiste Bithabai Narayangaonkar’s family has withdrawn its objection after the director. Laxman Utekar Itha explained the choice of name. The family, reassured by the clarification, is said to have resolved the matter amicably. Ahead of the film’s promotion, Shraddha and the team are expected to travel to Narayangaon ahead of its August 28 release. The report also says that the makers may hold the premiere of the film in the village itself.
Shraddha Kapoor film title row settled after director’s clarification
The dispute over the title of Ether seems to have ended after director Laxman Utekar spoke to the family of legendary lavani artist Bittbai Narayangaonkar. Mohit Narayangaonkar, Vithabai’s grandson, had earlier objected to the name, arguing that the film should have been titled Vitta instead of Etha. He has since said that he is satisfied with the filmmaker’s clarification on the issue.
Shraddha Kapoor’s ‘Itha’ pleases Bittabhai’s family
In a conversation with NDTV, Mohit said, “Yes, absolutely, we are satisfied. He spoke to us on the phone. We requested to change the title of the film, but he explained that Bithabai was earlier known as ‘Itha’ in rural areas. That’s why they chose this title for the film. Now we have no problem with it.” He spoke positively about how it portrays Tamasha and the Labani community, adding, “The film is made in a very positive way. It presents Tamasha and the Labani community in a very positive light. We are satisfied. No problem.”
Shraddha Kapoor will visit Narayangaon before the release
Mohit also shared that Shraddha and the film’s team are all set to visit Narayangaon ahead of Ether’s release on August 28. Clarifying whether the tour will take place after the film hits theaters, he said, “No, not after the release. Before the release.” He also mentioned that he requested the makers to hold the film’s first premiere in Narayangaon, considered a pilgrimage site for Tamasha, and revealed that Laxman Utekar responded positively, assuring him that the entire team would travel to the village.
NCP leader confirmed Shraddha Kapoor’s visit
Asked if Shraddha would also be present on the tour, Mohit replied, “Yes, yes.” Babasaheb Patil, state president of the Nationalist Congress Party’s film and cultural department, also confirmed that the visit was indeed being planned, saying, “Yes, they are going to meet them. It is absolutely correct.” He added that both Shraddha and Laxman could be part of the tour, though the full schedule is still being worked out.
Shraddha Kapoor’s ‘Itha’ traces the life of Vitthabai Narayangaonkar
Directed by Lakshman Utekar, ‘Itha’ is a biographical drama that draws on the life of legendary lavani artist Bittbai Narayangaonkar. Shraddha plays the lead role, portraying the journey of the iconic performer by highlighting her struggles, resilience and lasting impact in the world of tamasha and lavani. MaharashtraIts folk art heritage. The film is slated to hit theaters on August 28, 2026.
