Shraddha Kapoor to play folk dance legend.
This movie is more than just a dance story; it’s a powerful portrayal of a woman’s courage, her unwavering passion for her art, and her journey through a world that often tried to silence her. Through determination and resilience, she rose above limitations, challenged stereotypes, and carved a place for herself in a male-dominated field. It reminds us that when talent meets perseverance, no barrier is too strong, and no dream is too far to reach.
Shraddha Kapoor to Portray Lavani Legend Vithabai Narayangaonkar in Her Next Film
Mumbai: Bollywood actress Shraddha Kapoor is currently experiencing a golden phase in her career. After making a strong mark with several successful films, she continues to prove her versatility with every new project. Her recent release, Stree 2, has turned out to be a major box office success, much like its predecessor. Audiences have been showering love on her performance, and fans have eagerly been waiting to hear about her next big move.
Shraddha Kapoor is all set to take on a powerful and inspiring real-life role in her upcoming film. The film is being directed by Laxman Utekar, who recently gained acclaim for his historical drama Chhaava.
A New Chapter After Stree 2
From romantic comedies to horror-dramas and socially relevant films, she has demonstrated a wide acting range. But this new role as Vithabai Narayangaonkar promises to be one of the most challenging and significant roles of her career so far.
This time, she dives deep into the world of Lavani — a traditional Maharashtrian folk dance known for its powerful expressions, rhythm, and vibrant storytelling. The art form has historically been dominated by women performers and is rich with cultural significance. By taking on the role of one of Lavani’s most iconic figures, Shraddha steps into the shoes of a woman who lived and breathed her art, despite facing extreme hardships.
Who Was Vithabai Narayangaonkar?
Vithabai Narayangaonkar was no ordinary performer. Born into a family with strong roots in folk art, she rose to fame through her extraordinary talent, unmatched dedication, and fearless spirit. She wasn’t just a dancer — she was a symbol of strength and devotion to the performing arts.
Lavani performances require energy, grace, and emotional depth, and Vithabai was considered a master of all three. One of the most iconic and emotional stories from her life is an incident that showcases her dedication in the most unimaginable way.
According to historical accounts, Vithabai once gave birth to a child backstage during a Lavani performance. With no medical assistance or help available, she is said to have cut the umbilical cord with a stone and then returned to the stage to complete her performance. This incident has become legendary and is often told as a testament to her devotion to the stage and her craft. It is stories like this that make her life not only inspiring but also cinematic in the truest sense.
More Than a Dance Film
While the film will feature Lavani performances and showcase the rich heritage of Maharashtra’s folk arts, the narrative goes far beyond just dance.
The movie aims to highlight the struggles that Vithabai faced — not just as a performer, but as a woman who dared to follow her passion against all odds. At a time when societal norms often discouraged women from public performance, especially in traditional art forms like Lavani, Vithabai chose to follow her heart and keep her art alive. Her story is one of courage, love, passion, and determination.
Sources close to the production have revealed that the movie will be based on a biography detailing Vithabai’s life, ensuring the film stays true to her journey. The screenplay is said to be rich in emotional depth, capturing both the highs and lows of her remarkable life.
Shraddha’s Preparation and Challenge
Taking on such a layered role is no small task. Shraddha is also said to be reading literature about the folk art and spending time understanding the cultural context of Vithabai’s time.
Working alongside director Laxman Utekar, known for his ability to mix emotion and drama with historical authenticity, Shraddha will have a solid foundation to deliver a performance that does justice to the legendary figure.
Fans and critics alike are hopeful and excited. Many believe that this role could mark a turning point in Shraddha’s career — not only as a commercial actress but also as a serious performer capable of handling complex, biographical roles.
Music by Ajay-Atul
Adding to the anticipation is the announcement that celebrated music duo Ajay-Atul will be composing the music for the film. Known for their grand compositions and powerful melodies rooted in Indian tradition, Ajay-Atul are expected to bring Lavani music to life in a way that resonates with both traditional and modern audiences.
Their previous work in films like Sairat, Tanhaji, and Agneepath has been widely appreciated, and their involvement in this film adds another layer of richness and authenticity to the project. Fans can look forward to a vibrant and emotional soundtrack that honors Lavani’s essence.