Anupam Kher has given audiences their first behind-the-scenes glimpse of his role in The Bengal Files, the upcoming film directed by Vivek Agnihotri. On Instagram, Kher shared a short video walking alongside Agnihotri, dressed in the iconic attire of Mahatma Gandhi. The clip confirmed what the trailer had already revealed Kher is set to portray Gandhi on screen.

Controversial Trailer Launch in Kolkata

The trailer of The Bengal Files was released earlier this month in Kolkata, but the event quickly turned controversial. The film’s subject matter sparked heated discussions, with critics questioning its portrayal of history.

However, Agnihotri stood firm. He later posted the trailer on his social media handles, calling it an important story that needed to be told. Despite the backlash, the trailer has gained wide attention nationwide.

From the sets of @vivekagnihotri’s #TheBengalFiles! 🙏 @pallavijoshiofficial #Gandhi #BehindTheScenes pic.twitter.com/vrLOoqeBlL

— Anupam Kher (@AnupamPKher) August 24, 2025

Agnihotri Returns After The Kashmir Files

This project marks Vivek Agnihotri’s return to cinema after the massive success of The Kashmir Files. That film, which also starred Anupam Kher, became a box-office phenomenon and stirred significant debate.

Agnihotri, a two-time National Award winner, has once again chosen to address a politically sensitive and painful period of Indian history. His films are known for their bold narratives, and The Bengal Files continues that pattern.

Storyline Rooted in History

The film revisits the violent events in undivided Bengal during the 1940s, a decade marked by social unrest and political turmoil.

It specifically highlights Direct Action Day of 1946 and the Noakhali riots, which the film describes as a “Hindu Genocide.” Through these events, the story attempts to capture the scale of communal clashes that shook the region before India’s Partition.

Trailer Portrays Chaos and Resistance

The trailer opens with a voice-over describing Bengal’s condition before Partition. It then shifts to shocking scenes of communal violence between Hindus and Muslims in Calcutta (now Kolkata). Bloodshed, riots, and widespread suffering are shown to underline the devastating impact of the period.

One of the standout moments in the trailer depicts Bengal as the “lighthouse of India,” a metaphor for its resistance and courage during times of turmoil.

Ensemble Cast Adds Power

The film boasts a strong cast led by Anupam Kher, Mithun Chakraborty, Pallavi Joshi, and Darshan Kumaar. The trailer highlights their intense performances, with each actor portraying characters that embody the pain and resilience of Bengal’s people.

Given the subject matter, the film is expected to deliver both emotional depth and powerful storytelling.

Release Date and Expectations

The Bengal Files will release in theatres on September 5, 2025.

Given its subject, the film is likely to spark national debates, much like Agnihotri’s earlier project. Supporters see it as an attempt to bring forgotten history to the forefront, while critics expect it to reignite political and social controversy.