Vivek Agnihotri’s upcoming film The Bengal Files has found itself in controversy even before its release. The filmmaker was earlier denied permission to launch the trailer in Kolkata, and now a public dispute has emerged between him and lead actor Saswata Chatterjee.
In a recent video, Saswata Chatterjee said he felt cheated by Agnihotri regarding the title of the film. He revealed that when he signed the project, the title was The Delhi Files, but later it was changed to The Bengal Files.
Chatterjee claimed he only came to know of the title change after the film’s production was completed. He also noted that it has now become common for actors not to be told the complete story of a project before they commit to it.
He clarified that he accepted the role because he found the villain’s character rare and powerful, offering a strong performance opportunity. However, he expressed disappointment that the title change and its implications were not shared with him in advance.
On social media, many users argued that the title change made the film look like a propaganda project by the BJP. They believe a Delhi-based story would not benefit the party politically, while focusing on Bengal could prove more impactful.
Responding to the claims, Vivek Agnihotri denied misleading the actor and said Chatterjee’s statements were politically influenced. He suggested that in Bengal, the ruling party pressures people to speak in a certain way, and that this situation was no different.
Agnihotri explained that the initial working title was The Delhi Files: Bengal Chapter and that Chatterjee was cast as a Bengali MLA in a Bengal-based story. He insisted the context was clear from the beginning and that all actors were informed.
The director also praised Chatterjee’s performance, calling it “fabulous,” while standing by his claim that the actor’s comments were politically motivated. His defence has only deepened the debate around the film’s subject and its controversial positioning.
With multiple controversies surrounding The Bengal Files ahead of release, the film has already sparked intense discussions. Fans are now keen to see how both the film and the public spat unfold when it finally reaches theatres.
