Vivek Agnihotri Shares Old Video After Mamata Banerjee Defeat, Recalls ‘The Bengal Files’ Row
Vivek Agnihotri: Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri has launched a scathing attack on the TMC government by sharing a video following Mamata Banerjee's defeat in West Bengal. Find out what he said.
Following the defeat of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in the elections in Bengal, Vivek uploaded a clip on Instagram. The clip depicts the challenges Vivek faced during the release of his film “The Bengal Files” in the regime of Mamata Banerjee.
Vivek Agnihotri also wrote a lengthy caption while sharing the video. He said, "Never again. For those who don't know, Mamata Banerjee banned me in Bengal after the release of "The Bengal Files." The film was removed from theaters and she said I would not be allowed entry into Bengal."
He further wrote, "Last year, 'The Bengal Files' was completely banned in West Bengal. Our trailer launch was stopped. We were attacked and beaten. Several FIRs were filed against me. I was banned in Bengal. I couldn't even go to receive my award from the Governor.
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… pic.twitter.com/9JzHU2lgwE — Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri (@vivekagnihotri) May 5, 2026
Vivek also revealed that he secretly showed 'The Bengal Files' to people before the elections. He continued, "But we didn't give up. During these elections, we tried to get 'The Bengal Files' shown to as many people as possible in Bengal through an underground method. I'm glad we didn't give up and fought our way. And finally... we got this historic victory. Congratulations to the people of Bengal. Now you can walk with your heads held high, without fear."
Mamata Banerjee's government in West Bengal did not officially ban 'The Bengal Files.' However, theater owners mutually decided not to screen the film. It's also worth noting that no theater owner officially explained why they didn't screen the film.
Produced by Abhishek Agarwal Arts and I Am Buddha Productions, "The Bengal Files" is based on the violent events of 1940s Bengal, particularly the Great Calcutta Killings of 1946. The film depicts a period when ideology, religion, and life clashed.
