Directed by Laxman Utekar (Luka Chuppi, Mimi, Zara Hatke Zara Bachke, Chhaava) and produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films, the film chronicles the extraordinary life, art, and resilience of legendary Marathi Tamasha and Lavani performer Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar.
The film was previously lined up for an August release before the production house officially shifted the date to the first week of December to optimize its post-production pipeline and secure an uncluttered late-winter theatrical window.
The Story of the 'Tamasha Samradini'
Set against the cultural heartland of Maharashtra (spanning Pandharpur, Solapur, Satara, and Kolhapur), Eetha explores the journey of Vithabai Narayangaonkar—revered as the "Tamasha Empress":
Dedication to Art: The film captures pivotal moments from her life, including her legendary commitment to folk theatre where she continued stage performances through extreme adversity and pain.
National Honors: A trailblazer who carried her family's folk legacy across generations, Vithabai was honored with two prestigious President's Awards (1957 and 1990) for her profound contributions to Indian folk culture.
Shraddha Kapoor’s Transformation: Marking her return as a solo dramatic lead following the monumental success of Stree 2, Shraddha underwent extensive classical and Lavani dance training, alongside dialect coaching to authentically portray the iconic folk artist.
Strategic December Box Office Window
By locking December 4, 2026, Maddock Films places Eetha in a strategic theatrical corridor:
It arrives a week after Emraan Hashmi's action-romance Gunmaaster G9 (November 27) and gives the folk drama a solid 3-week runway before the crowded Christmas and New Year box-office rush.
With musical compositions by Ajay-Atul, the marketing and song campaign will kick into gear in mid-autumn.
Trade Verdict:
The combination of Laxman Utekar’s proven directorial record in grounded Indian narratives, Dinesh Vijan's production pedigree, and Shraddha Kapoor headlining a high-stakes cultural biopic makes Eetha one of the most anticipated dramatic releases of late 2026. The December 4 release sets up an emotional, song-and-performance-driven theatrical showcase.
