The Bengal Files’ Controversy: Vivek Agnihotri Raises Alarm on Threats to Theatre Owners

The controversial film The Bengal Files, released this Friday, 5th September 2025, has been making headlines even before its release. On the day of the screening in Mumbai, director Vivek Agnihotri, producer–actress Pallavi Joshi, and Abhishek addressed the press, expressing their concerns about the growing controversy and alleged interference by the West Bengal government. (Vivek Agnihotri raises alarm over The Bengal Files)

The Bengal Files

Producer–actress Pallavi Joshi said

Pallavi Joshi, producer–actress of The Bengal Files and wife of director Vivek Agnihotri, stated:
“Art should not be stopped. I have written to the President and, as a woman, appealed to ensure law and order in Bengal so the film can be released peacefully. Artists must have the freedom of expression.” (The Bengal Files controversy in Indian cinema) 

Director Vivek Agnihotri said

Director Vivek Agnihotri remarked: “Mamata Banerjee has taken an oath to uphold the Constitution. She must protect every citizen’s freedom of expression. I openly invite her – come, watch the film, and debate. But stopping the film goes against democracy and the rule of law. The real reason is that this film exposes the truth of Hindu genocide and the demographic changes in Bengal, which would lay bare her vote-bank politics.” (Indian cinema controversies Vivek Agnihotri movies)

Freedom of expression and political pressure

Agnihotri clarified that the film highlights the partition of India—particularly the partition of Bengal—and the history of Hindu genocide. He alleged that the Bengal government, especially Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, is using the police to unlawfully suppress the film’s release in an unconstitutional manner. He asserted that this is a work of art, and creative freedom is every artist’s right.

Theatre owners threatened by police

At the press conference, Agnihotri further revealed that theatre owners in Bengal have been receiving direct threatening phone calls from the local police, warning them of “serious consequences” if the film is released. He said that this information was officially shared with him after speaking to the CEO of one of India’s top multiplex chains. Additionally, three of Kolkata’s largest newspapers refused to publish advertisements for the film—a first in Indian cinema history. (The Bengal Files movie latest updates 2025)

Agnihotri added:

“Today this is happening to us, tomorrow it could happen to another filmmaker, then to the media, and eventually to the common citizen. Therefore, we hope the media and film industry will stand with us.”

Banned in four countries, now Bengal too

Vivek stated that until now, the film had faced restrictions in only four Islamic countries (UAE, Mauritius, Singapore, and Malaysia). “But now West Bengal too has joined that list,” he said. “The film has already been cleared by the censor board and is releasing across India, so why is it being blocked only in Bengal?” (Impact of The Bengal Files on theatre screenings in India)

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The team further revealed that they are receiving death threats around the clock. FIRs have also been filed in several places. They are appealing to the President, Prime Minister, and Home Minister for intervention, and are preparing to file a writ petition as part of their legal recourse.

Appeal for law and order

During the press conference, the producers appealed to the President, Prime Minister, and Home Minister to ensure law and order in Bengal and guarantee the peaceful release of the film. They also mentioned that a Bengali version of The Bengal Files has been prepared, which millions of viewers are waiting to watch.

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The Bengal Files, directed by Vivek Agnihotri, features a powerful ensemble cast including Mithun Chakraborty, Anupam Kher, Darshan Kumar, Simratt Kaur, Saswata Chatterjee, Namashi Chakraborty, Rajesh Khattar, Puneet Issar, Priyanshu Chatterjee, Dibyendu Bhattacharya, Sourav Das, Mohan Kapur, and several others.

FAQ

Q1: What is The Bengal Files controversy about?
A1: The controversy revolves around filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri’s claims that theatre owners are facing threats and intimidation, discouraging them from screening The Bengal Files.

Q2: Who is Vivek Agnihotri?
A2: Vivek Agnihotri is a filmmaker known for politically charged and socially sensitive films, including The Kashmir Files and The Vaccine War.

Q3: What did Vivek Agnihotri allege regarding The Bengal Files?
A3: He alleged that certain groups are pressuring theatre owners not to screen the film, raising concerns about freedom of expression and artistic liberty.

Q4: Why is The Bengal Files considered controversial?
A4: The film addresses sensitive political and historical issues in Bengal, which has sparked debates and strong reactions even before its release.

Q5: How have theatre owners responded to the alleged threats?
A5: Some theatre owners have reportedly expressed concerns over safety and pressure, though official confirmations remain limited.

Q6: Has the government or film authorities responded?
A6: As of now, there has been no official confirmation of intervention, but the issue has ignited a larger debate on censorship, creative freedom, and audience access.

Q7: When is The Bengal Files expected to release?
A7: The release date is yet to be finalized, and it may depend on the resolution of the current controversy and availability of safe screenings.

Q8: What is the wider impact of this controversy on Indian cinema?
A8: The situation highlights the challenges faced by filmmakers in addressing sensitive subjects, raising questions about the balance between creative freedom and political sensitivities.

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