The Bengal Files, set to release on September 5, 2025, is creating waves in the film world. Directed by Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri, this historical drama is the final chapter of his acclaimed โFilesโ trilogy, following The Tashkent Files (2019) and The Kashmir Files (2022). The movie dives deep into the tragic events of the 1946 Great Calcutta Killings and the Noakhali riots, shedding light on a dark chapter of Indiaโs history. With a stellar cast, gripping storyline, and a bold narrative, itโs already generating buzz and controversy. In this blog post, weโll explore every detail about The Bengal Filesโfrom its plot and cast to reviews, controversies, and more. Get ready for an in-depth look at this cinematic milestone! ๐ฅโจ
What Is The Bengal Files About? ๐ต๏ธโโ๏ธ

The Bengal Files is a Hindi-language historical thriller that focuses on the communal violence in Bengal during the 1940s. The film centers on the Direct Action Day riots, also known as the Great Calcutta Killings, which began on August 16, 1946. These riots, sparked by the All India Muslim Leagueโs call for action, led to widespread violence, primarily affecting the Hindu population. The movie also touches on the Noakhali riots and other unrest in Bengal, which played a significant role in Indiaโs partition.
The story revolves around the tragic events at Kesoram Cotton Mills, where 500 Oriya Hindu laborers were brutally killed and burned alive by Muslim League mobs. This incident, known as the โWeek of the Long Knives,โ marked a turning point in Indiaโs struggle for independence. The film portrays personal tragedies, societal divides, and the resilience of those who stood against violence. Itโs not just a historical recount; itโs a raw, emotional journey that questions the cost of hatred and the strength of human spirit.
Vivek Agnihotri, known for his bold storytelling, calls this film a โrequiem, a reckoning, and a rallying cry.โ He aims to uncover forgotten truths about Bengalโs past and its impact on Indiaโs present and future. The movieโs subtitle, Right to Life, emphasizes the human cost of these events and the fight for survival.
Cast and Crew: Whoโs Behind the Magic? ๐ญ
The film boasts a powerhouse ensemble cast, bringing depth to its intense narrative. Hereโs a look at the key players:
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Mithun Chakraborty | Madman Chatur |
| Anupam Kher | Mahatma Gandhi |
| Pallavi Joshi | Maa Bharati |
| Darshan Kumar | Shiva Pandit (Kashmiri Pandit) |
| Simrat Kaur | Young Bharati |
| Saswata Chatterjee | Not Disclosed |
| Namashi Chakraborty | Not Disclosed |
| Puneet Issar | Not Disclosed |
| Govind Namdev | Not Disclosed |
| Babbu Maan | Not Disclosed |
| Palomi Ghosh | Not Disclosed |
| Mohan Kapur | Not Disclosed |
Director and Writer: Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri
Producers: Abhishek Agarwal, Pallavi Joshi, Tej Narayan Agarwal, Archana Agarwal
Cinematographer: Attar Singh Saini
Production Companies: Abhishek Agarwal Arts, I Am Buddha
Runtime: 204 minutes (one of the longest Indian films)
Release Date: September 5, 2025
Budget: Approximately โน400 crore
The cast delivers emotionally charged performances, with Mithun Chakrabortyโs haunting line, calling Bengal the โLand of the Eunuchs,โ leaving a lasting impact. Pallavi Joshiโs portrayal of generational trauma is described as graceful yet devastating, while Anupam Kherโs role as Mahatma Gandhi adds historical weight.
Early Reviews: What Are People Saying? ๐
The Bengal Files has already premiered in parts of the United States, starting with a grand screening in New Jersey on July 19, 2025. Early reviews from audiences and critics are overwhelmingly positive, though the filmโs bold narrative has sparked debates. Hereโs what people are saying:
- Jignesh Solanki (New Jersey, July 21, 2025): โItโs heart-wrenching. After 24 hours, I am still in that zone. I canโt stop thinking about it.โ He praised the filmโs gripping storytelling and revealed its focus on the Kesoram Cotton Mills massacre.
- Rakesh Kaul (The Indian EYE, July 24, 2025): โThe Bengal Files is more than a filmโit is an act of historical remembrance and spiritual redressโฆ It evokes the visceral immediacy of Hotel Rwanda and Bloody Sunday.โ Kaul lauded its universal message about the dangers of hatred and the resilience of the human spirit.
- Box Office Wala (August 16, 2025): โRaw, powerful, and unsettlingโฆ Anupam Kher shines as Gandhi, while Vivek Agnihotriโs storytelling is bold and uncompromising. Not an easy watch, but a necessary one.โ Rated 4/5 stars.
- Audience in San Francisco (August 12, 2025): โMy family lived through this. This movie brought so many emotions in me. This is a must-watch for everyone.โ
Viewers have described the film as โmind-boggling,โ โhaunting,โ โphenomenal,โ and a โwake-up call.โ The premiere in New Jersey saw audiences clapping, crying, and left haunted by the filmโs truth. However, some have criticized its portrayal of historical figures and events, sparking controversy.
The Controversy: Why Is It Making Headlines? โก
The Bengal Files is no stranger to controversy. Its unflinching depiction of the 1946 riots and its focus on the โHindu genocideโ have stirred debates. Here are the key issues:
- Historical Accuracy: Descendants of freedom fighter Gopal Mukherjee (Gopal Patha) have filed legal notices, claiming the film distorts his legacy. They argue that Mukherjee protected Muslim families during the riots, but the movie portrays him as a communal figure.
- Political Suppression: The trailer launch in Kolkata was halted, with officials citing a lack of permission. Vivek Agnihotri accused authorities of political suppression, escalating tensions.
- Sensitive Subject Matter: The filmโs depiction of communal violence and its focus on the Muslim Leagueโs role in the riots have drawn criticism for potentially fueling division. Agnihotri defends the film, saying it uncovers a truth long buried.
Despite the backlash, supporters argue that the film is a necessary reflection on a forgotten tragedy. Its bold narrative has made it a polarizing yet highly anticipated release.
Why Is The Bengal Files a Must-Watch? ๐ฌ
- Historical Significance: The film sheds light on lesser-known events that shaped Indiaโs partition. Itโs a chance to learn about a pivotal moment in history.
- Powerful Performances: The ensemble cast, especially Mithun Chakraborty and Anupam Kher, delivers unforgettable performances.
- Bold Storytelling: Vivek Agnihotriโs fearless approach makes this more than a movieโitโs a conversation starter.
- Emotional Impact: The storyโs raw depiction of human suffering and resilience will leave you moved.
- Cinematic Excellence: With a 204-minute runtime and stunning cinematography by Attar Singh Saini, itโs a visual and emotional journey.
The teaser, released on June 12, 2025, sets a haunting tone. It ends with a burning Durga idol and ominous warnings about Bengalโs fate, hinting at the filmโs intensity. The official trailer, launched on August 16, 2025, dives deeper into the violence and emotional weight of the story. Itโs been praised for its raw power and unsettling visuals, though it has also fueled controversy.
You can watch the trailer on platforms like YouTube or BookMyShow. Itโs a glimpse into the chaos and heartbreak that the film promises to deliver.
Release Details and Where to Watch ๐
- Release Date: September 5, 2025 (Teacherโs Day in India)
- Language: Hindi
- Genre: Crime, History, Thriller
- Runtime: 204 minutes
- Where to Watch: Theaters worldwide (check BookMyShow or local listings for tickets)
- Streaming Availability: Not yet announced, but The Tashkent Files and The Kashmir Files are available on Zee5 via OTTplay Premium, so it may follow suit.
The film has already premiered in several U.S. cities, including New Jersey, Washington, DC, and Los Angeles, as part of a โNever Again Tour.โ More premieres are scheduled in cities like Chicago and Houston before the global release.
How Does It Fit in the Files Trilogy? ๐
The Bengal Files is the final part of Vivek Agnihotriโs โFilesโ trilogy, which explores hidden truths in modern Indian history:
- The Tashkent Files (2019): Investigates the mysterious death of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri.
- The Kashmir Files (2022): Focuses on the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits during the 1990s. It became one of the highest-grossing films of its year despite controversy.
- The Bengal Files (2025): Concludes the trilogy by tackling the 1946 communal violence in Bengal.
Each film is known for its bold narrative and willingness to address sensitive topics. The Bengal Files continues this tradition, with Agnihotri emphasizing that โthe destiny of India is written in Delhi, not Bengal.โ
Box Office Expectations ๐ฐ
Given the success of The Kashmir Files, which grossed significantly during the COVID-19 era, The Bengal Files is expected to perform strongly. Its โน400 crore budget and high-profile cast make it a major release. The controversy surrounding the film may drive curiosity, boosting ticket sales. However, its long runtime and heavy subject matter could limit its appeal to mainstream audiences.
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10 FAQs About The Bengal Files โ
- What is the release date of The Bengal Files?
The film releases on September 5, 2025. - Who directed The Bengal Files?
Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri is the director and writer. - What is the movie about?
It focuses on the 1946 Great Calcutta Killings and Noakhali riots, exploring communal violence and its impact on Indiaโs partition. - Who stars in The Bengal Files?
The cast includes Mithun Chakraborty, Anupam Kher, Pallavi Joshi, Darshan Kumar, and Simrat Kaur, among others. - Is The Bengal Files part of a series?
Yes, itโs the final part of Vivek Agnihotriโs โFilesโ trilogy, following The Tashkent Files and The Kashmir Files. - Why is the film controversial?
It faces backlash over historical accuracy, particularly the portrayal of Gopal Mukherjee, and accusations of political suppression. - Where can I watch the trailer?
The trailer is available on YouTube, BookMyShow, and other platforms. - What is the runtime of the movie?
The film runs for 204 minutes, making it one of the longest Indian films. - Will The Bengal Files stream online?
Streaming details are not yet announced, but it may appear on platforms like Zee5 after its theatrical run. - What are early reviews saying?
Early reviews praise its gripping narrative and performances but note its unsettling and controversial nature.
Conclusion: Why You Should Watch The Bengal Files ๐
The Bengal Files is more than a movieโitโs a bold exploration of a painful chapter in Indiaโs history. With its powerful cast, intense storytelling, and unflinching look at communal violence, it promises to leave a lasting impact. While controversies surround its historical portrayals, the filmโs early reviews highlight its emotional depth and cinematic brilliance. Whether youโre a history buff, a fan of Vivek Agnihotriโs work, or someone who loves thought-provoking cinema, this film is a must-watch. Mark your calendars for September 5, 2025, and prepare to be moved, challenged, and inspired. ๐ฌ๐
Disclaimer: The information in this blog post is based on available web sources and social media posts as of August 23, 2025. Opinions and reviews reflect the perspectives of cited sources and audiences, not necessarily the author. Historical portrayals in The Bengal Files are subject to debate, and viewers are encouraged to research the events depicted for a balanced understanding.
Contents
- 1 What Is The Bengal Files About? ๐ต๏ธโโ๏ธ
- 2 Cast and Crew: Whoโs Behind the Magic? ๐ญ
- 3 Early Reviews: What Are People Saying? ๐
- 4 The Controversy: Why Is It Making Headlines? โก
- 5 Why Is The Bengal Files a Must-Watch? ๐ฌ
- 6 Trailer and Teaser: What to Expect? ๐ฝ๏ธ
- 7 Release Details and Where to Watch ๐
- 8 How Does It Fit in the Files Trilogy? ๐
- 9 Box Office Expectations ๐ฐ
- 10 10 FAQs About The Bengal Files โ
- 11 Conclusion: Why You Should Watch The Bengal Files ๐





