Photo source: www.cinemaexpress.com
The Bengal Files is an upcoming political drama film written and directed by Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri. It marks the third and final part of his acclaimed “Files Trilogy,” following The Tashkent Files and The Kashmir Files. This time, the director focuses on Bengal’s forgotten chapter of history — the Direct Action Day of 1946 and the Noakhali riots, both of which shook the nation before Partition. The story is narrated through the perspective of a Kashmiri Pandit character, drawing parallels between the communal turmoil of Bengal and the larger consequences it had on India’s future.
The film is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on September 5, 2025, coinciding with Teacher’s Day in India. Prior to its Indian release, the makers have also organized a 10-city premiere tour in the United States, covering cities like New Jersey, Chicago, Washington DC, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. The cast includes several prominent actors such as Mithun Chakraborty, Pallavi Joshi, Darshan Kumar, and more. A major highlight is Anupam Kher’s portrayal of Mahatma Gandhi, for which he prepared without using any prosthetics, making his transformation even more striking and authentic.
The teaser of The Bengal Files has already created waves with its bold and emotional tone. A powerful dialogue — “I am a Kashmiri Pandit… Bengal is turning into another Kashmir” — left viewers stunned, while visuals like the burning idol of Goddess Durga and depictions of communal violence struck a haunting chord. This gripping imagery led audiences on social media to describe the teaser as “something that hits like a bomb.”
However, the film hasn’t escaped controversy. During the trailer launch in Kolkata, screenings were reportedly canceled, and disruptions such as power cuts were alleged. The ruling TMC party criticized the film as “political propaganda,” while director Vivek Agnihotri countered by calling West Bengal the “new Kashmir,” raising concerns over illegal immigration and demographic changes.
Overall, The Bengal Files positions itself not just as a film but as a historical reminder, bringing to light stories that were either ignored or deliberately buried. With its intense subject, strong performances, and provocative storytelling, it is expected to ignite conversations and debates much like Agnihotri’s earlier films.
