Even before its release, Vivek Agnihotri‘s The Bengal Files is already at the center of a storm. The latest Controversy surrounding the film involves a public disagreement between the director and one of its lead actors, the acclaimed Saswata Chatterjee. A recent statement by Chatterjee questioning his awareness of the film’s final story and title has drawn a sharp and politically charged rebuttal from Agnihotri.
What Saswata Chatterjee Claimed
The issue began when Saswata Chatterjee, who plays the antagonist, stated in an interview that the film was titled The Delhi Files during the shoot. He claimed he only learned of the change to The Bengal Files after production was completed. The actor also mentioned that it is a current “trend” for actors not to be told the entire story of a film. He clarified that he accepted the role because he found the villain’s character “amazing” and a rare opportunity for any performer.
Vivek Agnihotri’s Sharp Rebuttal
In response, Vivek Agnihotri publicly refuted Chatterjee’s claims, suggesting they were influenced by the political climate in West Bengal. In a direct statement, Agnihotri said, “In Bengal… the ruling party tells you what to tell.” He countered the actor’s assertion of ignorance by pointing out that the film’s initial working title was The Delhi Files: Bengal Chapter, and that Chatterjee was playing a Bengali MLA in a story set entirely in Bengal, making the context clear from the start. Agnihotri added that all actors were informed of the final title change and praised Chatterjee’s “fabulous job” in the film before reiterating his belief that the comments were politically pressured.
A Film Steeped in Controversy
This public spat adds another layer of debate to a film that is already handling a sensitive and volatile subject. The Bengal Files: Right To Life is the third installment in Agnihotri’s ‘Files Trilogy’ and is set to explore the 1946 Direct Action Day, also known as the Great Calcutta Killings, and the subsequent Noakhali riots. Given the historical and political nature of its subject, the film has been a topic of discussion since its announcement. The film, which also stars Anupam Kher and Mithun Chakraborty, is scheduled to release on September 5, 2025.
About The Bengal Files
The Bengal Files: Right To Life is a historical drama directed by Vivek Agnihotri. It is the third installment in his ‘Files Trilogy,’ following The Tashkent Files and The Kashmir Files. The film, which stars Anupam Kher, Mithun Chakraborty, and Saswata Chatterjee, explores the events of the 1946 Calcutta Killings.
(Also read: The Bengal Files Trailer: Vivek Agnihotri Presents A Glimpse Into A Dark Chapter of History)
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