Vivek Agnihotri’s latest political drama, The Bengal Files, released in theatres on September 5, 2025. However, the film’s opening was far from ideal as it faced strong competition from Baaghi 4 and got entangled in controversy, particularly in West Bengal.
Low Key Opening: Rs 1.75 Crore on Day 1
As per the initial estimates of Sacnilk, The Bengal Files collected approximately Rs 1.75 crore India net on its first day. The overall Hindi occupancy of the film was at 21.24%, the best collection being during the late night shows at 29.20%. Morning and afternoon shows witnessed lower numbers at 15.08% and 18.58%, respectively.
This release fails to compare with the major releases of the year, given that it released on the same day as Baaghi 4, which made approximately Rs 12 crore.
Controversies Cast a Shadow Over Release
Even prior to its release in cinemas, The Bengal Files was under controversy. The film was allegedly banned unofficially in West Bengal, where no major cinema halls released the film. Even at the Kolkata trailer launch event, the trailer was not displayed at all, more raising speculations.
Director Vivek Agnihotri alleged that theatre managers were pressured not to show the film, and actress Pallavi Joshi wrote a public letter to the President of India, terming the handling of the film an act of censorship, although it had been cleared by the censor board.
Overshadowed by Baaghi 4
Box office revenue of the movie was further dented by its direct conflict with Tiger Shroff’s Baaghi 4, which had a much more robust opening with Rs 12 crore. High-octane action and stardom of Baaghi 4 definitely overswept screens and audience on the first day, which made it difficult for The Bengal Files to attract people.
Also Read: Baaghi 4 Review: Tiger Shroff’s great action and Sanjay Dutt’s fierce style in Baaghi 4
Plot and Cast of The Bengal Files
The Bengal Files is a work of fiction, based on actual historical events. It covers the 1940s communal violence in Bengal, centering around the wake of Direct Action Day and the Noakhali riots.
The movie boasts a high-profile cast, with Mithun Chakraborty, Anupam Kher, Pallavi Joshi, Darshan Kumar, and Simrat Kaur in lead roles. Supporting characters are essayed by Saswata Chatterjee, Namashi Chakraborty, Puneet Issar, Priyanshu Chatterjee, and others.
Also Read: Movie Review The Bengal Files | ‘We’ The People Must Watch
Will Word of Mouth Save It?
Although the slow beginning, it is possible that the film can still gain traction if positive audience word of mouth sets in. Still, the convergence of political backlash and compromised box office makes things ahead a tall order.
