The Bengal Files, directed by Vivek Agnihotri, is finally set for release on September 5, 2025. The film has now secured its censor certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification, after much debate over its sensitive content and lengthy review process.
Initially, the Examining Committee did not clear the film and instead referred it to the Reviving Committee. The RC cleared it with conditions that included removing contemptuous terms against the transgender community, replacing some photos of prominent figures, and submitting proof of historical claims.
The makers also had to provide consent letters from parents of child actors. They were asked to enhance the disclaimer with a larger font size and add a voiceover. After completing these changes, the film was awarded an A certificate, restricting it to adult audiences.
The censor certificate dated June 25, 2025, showed an initial runtime of 204 minutes and 30 seconds. Interestingly, after all revisions and voluntary changes, the runtime increased by two seconds, finalising at 3 hours, 24 minutes, and 32 seconds.
The team also made 29 voluntary changes, including removing references to figures such as Gopal Mukhopadhyay. Some scenes were modified and then added back, balancing out the cuts and even extending the film’s duration slightly.
This development has left audiences surprised. The Bengal Files has become the longest Bollywood film to date, running longer than Animal and Pushpa 2. Many wonder how such a lengthy film passed through the board with only limited cuts.
The CBFC has faced questions for being lenient with this film while being much stricter with others like Punjab ’95, Chhaava, Phule, and Singham Again, which were all asked to make extensive cuts to protect public sentiments.
Critics argue that The Bengal Files manipulates facts and figures, and yet it faced less resistance. They ask why a film accused of having an agenda was cleared so easily while others faced hurdles and heavy censorship.
On social media, viewers are questioning CBFC’s credibility. Many express distrust toward both the film and the organisation. Despite criticism, the release date remains unchanged, and The Bengal Files will hit theatres on September 5, 2025.
