Vivek Agnihotri’s controversial film, The Bengal Files, might finally secure screens in West Bengal. Producer Abhishek Agarwal will approach the BJP, following its big win in the state, to seek permission for the film’s release. For the unversed, the film team previously claimed that The Bengal Files was banned in the state under Mamata Banerjee’s rule.
However, no official ban was announced by TMC or Banerjee.
The Bengal Files to release in Bengal under BJP?
Following the defeat of Mamata Banerjee-led TMC in the West Bengal polls 2026, Abhishek Agarwal told news agency ANI, “Mamata Banerjee has exercised the Hindu-Muslim politics in Bengal.”
“I did not get permission for shooting Bengal Files over there…people of Bengal have done justice, particularly to me. My film was released all over the world, but not in Bengal because of her communal politics,” he added.
What did the makers say…
The Bengal Files film producer also alleged, “BJP won in many Muslim-dominated constituencies, which sends a clear signal that the public wants change and development. Our film was not based on Hindu-Muslim politics, it was about the history of Bengal…we had requested Mamata to atleast watch the film..now that BJP is in power, I can atleast go to Bengal. I could not earlier as there are so many cases against us…We will request the new government to let us release the film in Bengal…”
Vivek Agnihotri attacks Mamata Banerjee after the election results
Previously, Vivek Agnihotri celebrated Mamata Banerjee’s defeat. He took to X and shared an old video of himself talking about The Bengal Files not releasing in Bengal.
Agnihotri also said that he was not allowed to enter the state.
He said, “NEVER AGAIN. For those who don’t know, @MamataOfficial cancelled me in Bengal after the release of #TheKashmirFiles. The film was taken out of cinema halls, and she said I would NOT BE ALLOWED TO ENTER Bengal.”
Last year, she BANNED #TheBengalFiles completely in West Bengal. Our trailer launch was blocked. We were attacked and assaulted. Dozens of FIRs were filed against me. I was cancelled in Bengal. I couldn’t even go to receive my award from the Governor,” added the filmmaker.
Vivek Agnihotri claimed he contributed to Mamata Banerjee’s defeat by secretly showing The Bengal Files to people during the election.
“But we never gave up. During these elections, we ensured that #TheBengalFiles was shown to as many people as possible (underground) across Bengal. I am glad we didn’t give up and fought in our own little way. And finally… this unprecedented victory. Congratulations to the great people of Bengal. Now you can walk without fear, with your head held high,” he said.
Was The Bengal Files banned?
No official ban on The Bengal Files was announced by the then-ruling party, TMC. However, the film didn’t secure a single screen across the state. Multiple reports claimed that theatre owners skipped the film’s release and gave no official reason for their decision.
The film was released across other regions in India. However, it wasn’t commercially successful.
