Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri’s new film, The Bengal Files, has been released in cinemas. This film concludes his Files trilogy and was widely anticipated. The film’s trailer and Vivek’s interviews were prominently featured, especially in West Bengal, and stirred up controversy. The film focuses on the pre-independence era of 1946-47, set in Bengal, a time of intense communal riots and the Muslim League’s violence against Hindus. The film portrays the historical events of the period and the direct involvement of key figures, setting the stage for the narrative.
The film blends historical accounts with contemporary issues, including West Bengal’s current political landscape. The film’s story draws a parallel between the violence in Murshidabad during the partition and the situation in Kashmir. The director draws several parallels between the situation in West Bengal and Kashmir. The film raises numerous questions about the past, as well as the figures involved.
The film’s narrative is structured around multiple storylines. The film opens with a discussion between Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Jawaharlal Nehru regarding the partition of India and Pakistan. The film then shifts to the present day in Murshidabad, focusing on the abduction of Geeta Mandal. Sardar Hussaini, played by Saswata Chatterjee, is accused, leading to a CBI investigation.
CBI officer Shiva Pandit, played by Darshan Kumar, takes on the investigation. Shiva is a Kashmiri Pandit, and the film touches on his personal connection to the events. Shiva encounters Bharti Banerjee (Pallavi Joshi), who may hold valuable information. Bharti has lost her memory.
The film delves into the past, portraying the violence of the period. The film focuses on the Hindu massacre, depicting the horrors that took place. The film references key figures such as Gopal Patha, who played a role in protecting Kolkata.
The film shifts between historical events and the present day, aiming to highlight the Hindu massacre. The film draws comparison with The Kashmir Files. The character of Shiva Pandit is used to highlight the plight of Kashmiri Pandits. The film attempts to draw the parallels between the situation in West Bengal and Kashmir.
Gandhi, played by Anupam Kher, is portrayed as a figure who lacked decisiveness in the partition. The film attempts to examine his reactions. The film also includes Gopal Patha’s reaction to the situation. The film uses Tagore’s poems.
The film touches on the impact of the violence. Darshan Kumar and Simrat Kaur, as young Bharti Banerjee, act impressively. The film showcases the violence.
The film seeks to emulate the success of The Kashmir Files. The Kashmir Files has been at the center of the national debate for years. The film depicts the experiences of Kashmiri Pandits.
Film- The Bengal Files
Director- Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri
Actors- Mithun Chakraborty, Anupam Kher, Pallavi Joshi, Darshan Kumar, Simrat Kaur, Saswata Chatterjee, Puneet Issar, etc.
Theater release
Rating-3*