The Bengal Files is the final chapter in Vivek Agnihotri’s “Files” trilogy, following The Tashkent Files and The Kashmir Files. Directed and written by Agnihotri, the film explores intense chapters of India’s history— Direct Action Day (1946) and the Noakhali riots—that have shaped communal politics in Bengal. Set to release on September 5, 2025, it aims to unearth stories that many believe have stayed buried for too long.
Release Date
Mark your calendars! The Bengal Files will premiere in theaters on September 5, 2025, coinciding with Teachers’ Day in India—adding symbolic weight to its message.
Story & Historical Background
This political drama delves into the 1946 Great Calcutta Killings (Direct Action Day) and the Noakhali riots, depicting the harrowing communal violence that reshaped Bengal’s social fabric. It's based on real events often overlooked in mainstream narratives.
Agnihotri positions the film as a “wake-up call,” arguing Bengal could mirror Kashmir if the suppressed truths aren’t confronted.
Cast & Creative Team
Directed & Written by: Vivek Agnihotri
Producers: Abhishek Agarwal, Pallavi Joshi, and Vivek Agnihotri
Starring:
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Mithun Chakraborty
Anupam Kher as Mahatma Gandhi
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Darshan Kumar
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Pallavi Joshi
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Saswata Chatterjee, Namashi Chakraborty, Darashan Kumar, and others
Anupam Kher’s portrayal of Mahatma Gandhi generated buzz—he revealed no prosthetics were used to achieve the look, enhancing authenticity.
Controversy & Media Buzz
The film's promotional journey has been far from smooth. Director Agnihotri alleged that the Kolkata trailer launch faced severe disruptions—multiplex cancellations, hotel screenings halted due to wire cuts, and even police interference. Agnihotri blamed political suppression in West Bengal.
He vehemently criticized the cancellations as an assault on free expression, stating:
“If we are being silenced in the land of Satyajit Ray...”
While TMC leaders dismissed it as politically motivated storytelling, supporters condemned it as censorship.
Why This Movie Matters
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Historical Relevance: Sheds light on suppressed chapters of Bengal’s history.
Filmmaking Boldness: The film stands out for its thematic courage and patriotic calling.
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Cultural Conversation: Sparked debates on censorship, suppression, and the freedom of artistic expression.
FAQs – Quick Facts
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| When is The Bengal Files releasing? | It hits theaters on September 5, 2025. |
| What is the film about? | It covers the brutal events of the Direct Action Day and Noakhali riots (1946). |
| Who’s in it? | Stars include Mithun Chakraborty, Anupam Kher, Pallavi Joshi, and others. |
| Why the controversy? | Trailer launch disrupted amid alleged political interference and censorship claims. |
Conclusion
The Bengal Files isn’t just another historical drama—it's a political statement, an exploration of forgotten tragedies, and a symbol of resistance against censorship. With its ensemble cast, provocative themes, and charged promotional journey, the film aims to stir national reflection—and conversation.