Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri has made an appeal to West Bengal Chief MinisterMamata Banerjee ahead of the release of his new film, ‘The Bengal Files’. The film is set to hit theatres on September 5, 2025. However, Agnihotri fears that political pressure may prevent it from being screened in West Bengal.On Tuesday, September 2, Agnihotri shared a video on social media addressing the Chief Minister directly. He highlighted the concerns of theatre owners who are reportedly under immense political pressure to not screen the film.
Theatre owners reportedly facing strong political pressure
In the video, Agnihotri said, “Theatre owners are telling me that even if it is not banned, they have so much political pressure that they will have to pay a high price to show it. And that’s why they are afraid to show it. The workers of your party are also asking to ban this film. That’s why I request you, to release this film in West Bengal peacefully.”
Agnihotri reflects on free speech
Agnihotri further appealed to Mamata Banerjee, saying, “You have taken an oath of the Indian Constitution and to protect the rights of every citizen, the free speech of the people of India. CBFC has passed this film, which is a constitutional body. That’s why it is your constitutional duty to release this film in peace.” He captioned the video as, “URGENT: An open appeal to Hon’ble CM @MamataOfficial. Please listen till the end and share widely as your protest against banning of a film on Hindu Genocide. #TheBengalFiles In cinemas 05 September 2025.”
About ‘The Bengal Files’
‘The Bengal Files’ is set against West Bengal’s violent political past. The film features an ensemble cast, including Mithun Chakraborty, Pallavi Joshi, Anupam Kher, Simratt Kaur, and Darshan Kumarr.
