Mohd. Zeeshan Ayyub is looking forward to the release of ‘Eetha’, the upcoming biographical drama starring Shraddha Kapoor. Directed by Laxman Utekar, the film explores the life of celebrated Lavani and Tamasha artiste Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar. Mohd. Zeeshan Ayyub has described his character as an important part of the narrative, with a considerable emotional journey.In an interview with Variety India, the actor discussed his experience working on the project, his understanding of Maharashtra’s traditional performance arts and his equation with Shraddha Kapoor. He also addressed the attention surrounding the film’s scheduled release in the first week of December. Despite the discussion around its theatrical window, he said his priority remained the story and its eventual connection with audiences.
Mohd. Zeeshan Ayyub says ‘Eetha’ is a special experience
The actor said the team was enthusiastic about presenting the film to viewers. The teaser has already received an encouraging response, adding to the anticipation surrounding the project. However, he was not particularly concerned about the commercial calculations associated with its release date.“All of us are really excited and we’re really looking forward to sharing the story with audiences. We got a great response for the teaser,” Zeeshan said.With trade discussions focusing on release schedules of ‘Eetha’, competition and audience response, the actor said these decisions were best handled by the people involved in the business.“Honestly, being an actor, I don’t think so much. Whether it will be released on this date or not. I’m sure the people in the trade must have thought about it. And if something like this happens, we’ll be more than happy. Honestly, we just want to share the story.”
Actor describes his character as emotionally demanding
While the makers are yet to unveil the official trailer, Mohd. Zeeshan Ayyub offered some insight into his role. He explained that the character occupies a crucial position in the film and carries significant emotional weight. The actor also suggested that viewers would understand more about the part once the promotional material is released.“It’s a very different and important character who’s carrying a lot of emotional burden and is extremely central to the plot.”
National School of Drama experience helped him understand folk arts
‘Eetha’ takes viewers into the world of Maharashtra’s traditional performance forms, particularly Lavani and Tamasha. Mohd. Zeeshan Ayyub said his association with the National School of Drama had introduced him to these art forms through theatre studies. However, the film gave him an opportunity to understand the lives of the people associated with these traditions.“I didn’t have too many details, honestly. But I’d heard of it because of being from the National School of Drama so you get to study about it. I think that’s the benefit of a theater background. You read about them. But I didn’t know about the lifestyle of the people involved in it. That’s what the film did for me.”
Mohd. Zeeshan Ayyub recalls bonding with Shraddha Kapoor
The actor also spoke about sharing screen space with Shraddha Kapoor. He revealed that most of his scenes were with the actress and described their time on the sets as enjoyable. Their association during filming also helped them develop a friendship.“Most of my scenes are with her. It was a lot of fun. We became good friends. We had so much fun. As the shoot went on, we had a great time. It’s such a central, delicately placed character. There’s a lot of curiosity about the film, so it’s best for audiences to wait for things to be unveiled.”
Shraddha Kapoor portrays Lavani artiste Vithabai
Directed by Laxman Utekar, ‘Eetha’ is a Hindi-language biographical drama based on the life of Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar. Shraddha Kapoor plays the titular role, portraying the celebrated performer known for her contribution to Lavani and Tamasha.The film also features Randeep Hooda, Mohd. Zeeshan Ayyub, Siddharth Jadhav, Ishtiyak Khan and Anant Joshi in important roles.