After the roaring success of Chhaava, filmmaker Laxman Utekar is all set to step into another world rooted in Maharashtra’s cultural heritage. His next directorial venture, a biographical drama, will bring to screen the extraordinary life of Lavani and Tamasha icon, Vithabai Narayangaonkar — a name synonymous with grace, grit, and artistic excellence.
The yet-untitled film is expected to go on floors by the end of this month in Mumbai. According to sources, Randeep Hooda has been roped in to play the male lead opposite Shraddha Kapoor, who essays the role of the legendary performer. The pairing, an unexpected but exciting one, adds a new dimension to Utekar’s storytelling. Both actors are celebrated for their emotional range and commitment to authentic portrayals, making this collaboration particularly intriguing.
Vithabai’s journey is nothing short of cinematic — a tale of resilience and radiance, of a performer who rose from humble beginnings to become one of India’s most revered folk artists. Her mastery of Lavani and Tamasha not only entertained audiences but preserved a vital piece of cultural history. Twice honoured with the President’s Award, she remains an emblem of artistic devotion and feminine strength.
For Utekar, the project is more than a biopic; it’s a tribute to the roots of Indian performance — to the rhythm of the dholki, the poetry of the lavani verse, and the heartbeat of the woman who carried it all with grace. With Randeep and Shraddha leading the cast, the film promises a textured, soulful portrayal of a legend who lived for her art.
