Vivek Agnihotri's The Bengal Files, the third installment in his "Files" trilogy, has been released amidst controversy and divided public opinion. Following The Tashkent Files (2019) and The Kashmir Files (2022), this film delves into the sensitive and politically charged subject of the 1946 Calcutta Killings and the Noakhali riots. The film aims to depict the violence and its aftermath, arguing that these historical events have been deliberately suppressed.
The Bengal Files has already faced significant hurdles, including an "A" (adults only) certificate from the CBFC due to its extreme violence and gory content. Furthermore, the film has been banned in West Bengal, with the director alleging that the state government is pressuring theatre owners not to screen it. Agnihotri has indicated he is considering legal action against what he deems an unconstitutional ban.
The film's narrative is set against the backdrop of the "Direct Action Day" on August 16, 1946, in Calcutta. This day, also known as the Great Calcutta Killings, marked a period of intense communal violence. The Bengal Files aims to explore the events surrounding this tragedy and its impact on the region.
Reactions to the film have been polarized. Some viewers have described it as a "must-watch for every Indian," praising its powerful and emotional storytelling. They believe it sheds light on a crucial but often overlooked part of Indian history. Some netizens have hailed the movie as a mirror of the past. The performances of the cast, including Mithun Chakraborty, Pallavi Joshi, and Anupam Kher, have also been commended.
However, the film has also faced criticism. Some critics and viewers find the depiction of brutality and gore excessively graphic. Others feel that the film's runtime, at 204 minutes, is too long. There are also accusations that the film spreads misinformation, stokes division, and exhibits a bias against Bengalis. Some viewers have pointed out the "age-old hatred for Bengalis" in the film.
The director initially titled the film The Delhi Files: The Bengal Chapter. However, due to public sentiment, the title was changed to The Bengal Files: Right to Life. Agnihotri explained that the shift was prompted by a social media poll that overwhelmingly favored a title that better reflected the film's subject.
Despite the controversies and criticisms, The Bengal Files has garnered attention for tackling a sensitive historical subject. The film's release has sparked debate about the portrayal of historical events and the importance of remembering the past.
