Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri’s The Bengal Files, which released in theatres on Friday, September 5, has already sparked controversy. The film, based on the 1946 Great Calcutta Killings, opened across India but was notably absent from theatres in West Bengal, where owners have mutually decided not to screen it. Importantly, the Mamata Banerjee-led state government has not imposed an official ban.
Show Cancelled in Mumbai’s Kanjurmarg
Even outside Bengal, the release has not been without issues. In Mumbai’s Kanjurmarg, a scheduled screening of the film was reportedly cancelled at the last minute. A social media user, Narayan Parvathy Parasuram, posted a video on X claiming that the 9 a.m. show he and several others had booked was abruptly pulled.
“There are so many who have waited here to see The Bengal Files. Advance ticket holders’ shows were abruptly cancelled. This is not acceptable. This is Shivaji Maharaj’s territory, not Kolkata,” he stated, further adding that close to 50 people were left outside the theatre.
Theatre Owners Silent
Although Bengal theatre associations have declined to provide a formal reason, the refusal to show the film has fueled continued controversy. Elsewhere in the nation, performances have gone on as planned, although the Kanjurmarg occurrence indicates isolated disruptions.
Controversy Over Gopal Patha’s Portrayal
Aside from the showmanship barriers, the movie has come under attack for how it portrays Gopal Patha, a historical figure who is widely credited with safeguarding Hindus during the 1946 riots. His grandson has complained against Agnihotri, charging that the representation is an insult to Patha’s legacy.
Polarised Reactions
Though its advocates celebrate the movie as a courageous bid to look back at a painful episode from history, detractors scoff at it as propaganda. With screenings interrupted and legal grievances surfacing, The Bengal Files continues to make headlines both politically and theatrically.
THE BENGAL FILES first day first show CANCELLED at Moviemax Kanjurmarg inspite of over 50% tickets booked for an early morning show!!!#TheBengalFiles #VivekAgnihotri pic.twitter.com/62PJv3nEyO
— Narayan Parvathy Parasuram (@NarayanPar89086) September 5, 2025
