Director Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri, gearing up for his upcoming film The Bengal Files, faced a setback on Saturday when the special screening of the film in Kolkata was cancelled. The trailer launch was initially scheduled at a theatre, but the venue was abruptly pulled, sparking controversy.
Agnihotri shared his frustration on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “Just landed in Kolkata and learnt that the venue for the trailer launch of #TheBengalFiles is cancelled. Who wants to suppress our voice? And why? But I can't be silenced. Because truth can't be silenced. ट्रेलर तो कोलकाता में ही लांच होगा। Please share this video and support.”
In an exclusive conversation with IANS, the director revealed that organisers cited political pressure as the reason for cancelling the screening. “Organisers told me they can’t show it because of political pressure. Then we approached another multiplex chain, but they also said the same, political pressure and potential trouble. When we had no options left, what could be more saddening for a filmmaker than not being able to show his film in a theatre?” Agnihotri remarked.
August 16, 2025, marks 79 years since Direct Action Day, when the All-India Muslim League called for strikes and economic shutdowns demanding a separate homeland after the British exit. Agnihotri noted, “The film is about Bengal and the people of Kolkata who suffered on Direct Action Day. The government should have supported us instead of obstructing the screening.”
After the multiplex screening was cancelled, a private banquet hall in Kolkata was arranged as an alternative venue. However, the screening there was also disrupted mid-event, with the wire cut and the program stopped. Agnihotri alleged, “The most powerful person in the state is obstructing this. If this is not dictatorship, then what is it?”
Despite the hurdles, Agnihotri remained resolute. “I will not let this happen. The film has a CBFC certificate and has already been shown in 12 cities in the US. We will ensure the trailer is launched, and our voice is heard,” he added.