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Vivek Agnihotri’s Reaction To Mamata Banerjee's West Bengal Elections

Filmmaker Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri recently shared his thoughts on the latest political developments in West Bengal. This followed Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee losing the Bhabanipur seat to BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari. This result has sparked discussion online because Bhabanipur has long been a stronghold for Banerjee and the Trinamool Congress.

A day after the election results were announced, Vivek Agnihotri took to social media. He posted an old video where he spoke about the difficulties he faced in West Bengal when launching his films.

Along with the video, The Bengal Files filmmaker wrote, "For those who don’t know, Mamata Banerjee 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 trailer launch was blocked. We were attacked and assaulted. Dozens of FIRs were filed against me. I was cancelled in Bengal. I couldn’t even go to receive my award from the Governor."

Vivek Agnihotri added that despite these challenges, his team found ways to screen the film. He said, "But we never gave up. During these elections, we ensured that #TheBengalFiles was shown to as many people as possible (underground) across Bengal. I am glad we didn’t give up and fought in our own little way. And finally… this unprecedented victory. Congratulations to the great people of Bengal. Now you can walk without fear, with your head held high."

The Controversy Around The Bengal Files

The Bengal Files was released in September 2025. The film features actors like Mithun Chakraborty, Pallavi Joshi, Anupam Kher, Simratt Kaur, and Darshan Kumaar. It is based on the turbulent history of West Bengal. The story looks at political conflicts, communal tensions, and historical memory. It is set against the violent unrest of the 1940s, especially the Great Calcutta Killings of 1946.

Many social media users have asked the filmmaker to release the film again in West Bengal following the election results.

Also Read: 'Decided To Forgive Them...': Sunita Ahuja Responds To Reuniting With Krushna, Kashmera And Grandchildren After 14 Years

Was The Film The Bengal Files Officially Banned In West Bengal?

Meanwhile, records show that there was no official ban on The Bengal Files by the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC government. Instead, theatre owners decided not to screen the film. Furthermore, none of the theatre owners gave an official reason for not showing the film in West Bengal.

 


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