Vithabai Narayangaonkar (1935–2002) was a legendary Maharashtrian folk artist. Crowned Tamasha Samradni (Empress of Tamasha) by the government, she is celebrated for her breathtaking dedication, fierce independence, and the resilience it took to popularize traditional Lavani and Tamasha arts.

Born in Pandharpur, Vithabai grew up in a family of traditional folk artists in Narayangaon. Following the death and financial downfall of her father, she took it upon herself to keep her family's Tamasha troupe afloat. She dedicated her entire life to the art form, mastering traditional genres like Lavanya, Gavlan, and Bhedik.

The most enduring story of Vithabai's unmatched devotion to her art occurred while she was performing at the peak of her career. Nine months pregnant, she began to experience labor pains mid-show. Instead of halting the performance, she went backstage, delivered the baby on her own, tied and cut the umbilical cord using a stone, and returned to the stage to complete her dance. The audience stopped the show in awe of her determination and requested she take the rest she so fully deserved.

Vithabai was a two-time recipient of medals from the President of India (1957 and 1990) for her contributions to folk art. Despite her massive fame, she lived life on her own terms and possessed deep self-respect.

When the legendary actor Raj Kapoor once brushed past her in a crowded setting, she stopped him and boldly said, "Ae bhay, zara dekh ke chalo" (Hey brother, watch where you're going), leaving the famous actor completely stunned. Later in her career, she even politely turned down a lucrative acting offer from him, preferring her life on the traditional Tamasha stage.

Despite being the jewel of Maharashtra's folk culture, Vithabai's final years were plagued by poverty, an exploitative husband, and severe financial distress. Following a paralytic attack, she passed away in 2002. Her family could barely afford her hospital bills, requiring contributions from donors and social workers to finally lay her to rest.

In 2006, the Maharashtra government instituted the annual Vithabai Narayangaonkar Lifetime Achievement Award to honor individuals who make significant contributions to the Tamasha art form

 A statue of the artist stands at the Narayangaon bus stand, and her extraordinary life continues to be the subject of plays and short films in Maharashtra

Now, Shraddha Kapoor is set to play Vithabai in the legendary artist's biopic titled Eetha. The trailer has already been making waves with the recent reveal.