Vivek Agnihotri Makes Major Revelation Following Mamata Banerjee's Defeat: 'The Bengal Files' Was Screened Covertly During the Elections

Following Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s defeat in the Bengal elections, Vivek shared an old video on Instagram. In this video, he recounted the difficulties he faced during the release of his film, The Bengal Files, while Mamata Banerjee was in power.

Sharing the Video to Take a Dig

While sharing the video, Vivek Agnihotri also penned a lengthy caption. He stated, “Never again. For those who are unaware, let me inform you that Mamata Banerjee ‘banned’ me from entering Bengal following the release of The Bengal Files. The film was pulled from theaters, and she declared that I would be denied entry into Bengal.”

He further wrote, “Last year, The Bengal Files was completely banned in West Bengal. Our trailer launch was halted. We were subjected to attacks and physical assaults. Multiple FIRs were lodged against me. I was banned from Bengal; I couldn’t even travel there to receive my award from the Governor.”

Screening the Film in Secret

Vivek also revealed that, prior to the elections, he had secretly screened The Bengal Files for the public. He added, “But we did not give up. During these elections, we made a concerted effort to screen The Bengal Files for as many people as possible across Bengal, utilizing underground channels. I am glad that we did not surrender and fought the battle on our own terms. And finally… we achieved this historic victory. Congratulations to the people of Bengal. You can now walk with your heads held high, without fear.”

Was The Bengal Files Banned in West Bengal?

Mamata Banerjee’s government in West Bengal did not impose any official ban on The Bengal Files. However, theater owners collectively decided, through mutual consensus, not to screen the film. It is also worth noting that no theater owner officially disclosed the specific reasons behind their decision not to screen the movie. Produced by Abhishek Agarwal Arts and I Am Buddha Productions, ‘The Bengal Files’ is based on the violent events that took place in Bengal during the 1940s—specifically during the Great Calcutta Killings of 1946. The film depicts an era when ideologies, religion, and the struggle for survival were in fierce collision.