Reviving the Legacy of Tamasha: The Story Behind ‘Eetha’

The vibrant world of Maharashtra’s tamasha tradition is set to receive renewed attention through the much-anticipated biopic ‘Eetha,’ which portrays the life of renowned artist Vithabai Narayangaonkar. The film, directed by Laxman Utekar and starring Shraddha Kapoor as Vithabai, delves into the trials and triumphs of one of the region’s most celebrated performers. The recently released teaser, which opens with the story of Vithabai’s dramatic childbirth, serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by artists in this rich cultural heritage.

Vithabai Narayangaonkar, born on July 1, 1935, in Pandharpur into a Dalit Mang family, grew up surrounded by the rhythms and narratives of tamasha. This traditional performance art form, known for its lively music, dance, and satire, often demanded immense dedication from its practitioners, as illustrated by the gripping scene in the teaser where Vithabai, still enduring the pain of labor, takes the stage to perform. Her son, Kailash Narayangaonkar, born on June 3, 1962, has carried forward his mother’s legacy, embodying the spirit of tamasha that influenced many generations.

‘Eetha’ not only tells the personal story of Vithabai but also sheds light on the broader socio-cultural aspects of the tamasha tradition, which has been facing a decline in recent years. The film, with music by the acclaimed duo Ajay-Atul, is set to release in cinemas on August 28, and is expected to reignite discussions around the art form’s significance in Maharashtra’s cultural landscape. The film follows Utekar’s previous work, ‘Chhaava’ (2025), which also focused on a cultural icon, reinforcing the importance of storytelling in preserving regional heritage.

The teaser has already sparked interest and conversations about the tamasha tradition and the challenges faced by artists in this field. As the audience eagerly anticipates Vithabai’s story on the big screen, many hope that ‘Eetha’ will not only entertain but also educate people about the depth of this art form and the lives intertwined with it. The legacy of Vithabai Narayangaonkar serves as a nostalgic reminder of the vibrant performances that once captivated audiences across Maharashtra, and the film aims to honor that heritage while inviting a new generation to appreciate its significance.

Source: scroll.in