In a recent podcast interview, Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri opened up about the challenges he has been facing regarding the film’s potential screening in the state, while also expressing openness to show it to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee despite the film being banned in the state of West Bengal.
During the candid conversation, Agnihotri reflected on the controversy surrounding the film, saying, “The most controversial thing is the truth. Truth is the most controversial thing in the world.” When asked whether his film would be screened in Bengal, he replied, “What can I do? What can I do if Rakshak becomes Bhakshak?”
Clarifying his stance, he said, “I am calling the government Bhakshak. Mamata Banerjee is the protector of Bengal right now. She is the Chief Minister. She is the police. The police come under her. Let her know.”
Responding to whether he takes cues from political parties like the BJP while making films, Agnihotri quipped, “No, the BJP does the campaign by asking me.”
Despite his criticisms, Agnihotri expressed no personal animosity towards the Chief Minister and even welcomed an opportunity to engage directly. “If she tells me, Mr. Vivek, come, I want to see your movie. I will go there without any hesitation.”
The filmmaker concluded by offering to share his contact, signaling his readiness to open a dialogue and possibly screen the film for the state leadership.
The Bengal Files is written and directed by Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri and produced by Abhishek Agarwal and Pallavi Joshi. The film is a Zee Studios Worldwide Release which is set to hit the theatres on September 5, 2025.
