What Happened at Vivek Agnihotri's 'The Bengal Files' First Screening in Kolkata?
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Synopsis
Vivek Agnihotri's 'The Bengal Files' made its debut screening in Kolkata amidst controversies and police interventions. This film, highlighting the tragic events of 1946, is the final part of a significant trilogy. With a restricted audience, the screening ignites discussions about freedom of expression and cultural representation in Bengal.
Key Takeaways
- 'The Bengal Files' explores significant historical events.
- It is the final installment of Vivek Agnihotri's Trilogy.
- The screening faced controversies and police interventions.
- Accessibility to the film remains a contentious issue in Bengal.
- The film has sparked discussions on freedom of expression.
Kolkata, Sep 13 (NationPress) Director Vivek Agnihotri’s film 'The Bengal Files' had its inaugural screening in Kolkata on Saturday.
The event took place at the Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Bhasha Bhavan auditorium situated within the National Library in south Kolkata, just a week after the film's nationwide debut.
The screening was organized by the socio-cultural platform 'Khola Hawa', regarded as the BJP's think tank in West Bengal.
This was a private screening, accessible only to invited guests. Attendees included filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri, BJP officials, and former Meghalaya Governor Tathagata Roy.
To ensure safety, a significant number of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel were present at the National Library.
Despite the movie's premiere on September 5, theaters in West Bengal did not screen it.
The film centers on the communal riots that occurred during Direct Action Day in August 1946 in what was then known as Calcutta.
This movie is the concluding part of Agnihotri’s Trilogy, following ‘The Tashkent Files’ and ‘The Kashmir Files’.
Agnihotri expressed, “It brings me immense happiness that this film is being shown at the National Library. However, it’s disappointing that the people of Bengal are unable to view the film elsewhere, as it cannot be screened in various halls and multiplexes across the state.”
It is noteworthy that last month, the Kolkata Police allegedly halted the teaser launch of the film in the city. Initially, a major cinema chain in Kolkata canceled the trailer launch, and a later attempt to unveil it at a five-star hotel faced police intervention midway.
Before the exclusive screening, Agnihotri posted on X, “The stage is set. 550 people will watch #TheBengalFiles tonight at the iconic National Library, Kolkata. 2000 are waiting.”
Point of View
The screening of 'The Bengal Files' reflects ongoing tensions in cultural discourse within India. It raises crucial questions about accessibility to art and the implications of censorship, especially in a diverse state like West Bengal. As the nation grapples with its historical narratives, films like this serve as pivotal touchpoints for dialogue and reflection.
NationPress
13/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
When was 'The Bengal Files' first screened?
The film had its first screening on September 13 in Kolkata.
Who organized the screening?
The screening was organized by the socio-cultural platform 'Khola Hawa' which is linked to the BJP.
What is the film about?
'The Bengal Files' focuses on the communal riots during Direct Action Day in August 1946 in Calcutta.
Why was there a police presence at the screening?
A large number of CISF personnel were deployed to ensure safety and prevent any untoward incidents.
Is the film available in theaters in West Bengal?
No, despite its nationwide release, the film is not being screened in theaters across West Bengal.
