Who Was Vithabai Narayangaonkar? Legendary Tamasha Artiste Behind Shraddha Kapoor’s Eetha

Shraddha Kapoor recently unveiled the exciting teaser of her next film 'Eetha', based on the life of the late legendary Tamasha artiste Vithabai Narayangaonkar. The teaser made viewers curious about one of the best performers in India and how she did not receive enough appreciation in her lifetime. Before watching Eetha, know all about the incredible and inspirational life of Vithabai Narayangaonkar, whose dedication to her craft is still remembered by many.

Vithabai Narayangaonkar was a dancer, singer, and a renowned Tamasha artiste who started performing on stage from a very early age without any formal training. Surrounded by talented artists because of her family in the same profession, she was exposed to various forms of songs like Bhedik and Lavanya.

Born in Pandharpur, Maharashtra, she was a part of the Bhau-Bapu Mang Narayangaonkar, set up by her grandfather and later run by her father and uncle.  

Lovingly called 'Tamasha Samradini', which means Tamasha Empress, by her fans, Vithabai received several recognitions and awards. Her troupe was honoured with the most prestigious President's award in the Tamasha genre of art.

Despite being a popular artiste, she suffered financial distress in her life. After her last breath, donors reportedly paid her hospital bills.

It is said that she even performed when she was nine months pregnant. While performing, she reportedly went into labour. She went backstage, delivered her baby, cut the umbilical cord herself and joined the stage again. The scene has also been shown in the teaser of Eetha.  

Vithabai was reportedly offered many movies due to her popularity, but she declined them. It is said that even Raj Kapoor was interested in casting her, but Vithabai refused as she believed that leaving tamasha would put the livelihoods of dozens of artistes working with her troupe at risk.

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Eetha will release in theatres on August 28, 2026. Shraddha Kapoor will play the role of Vithabai Narayangaonkar.

 

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