Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Aug 21: Actress and producer Pallavi Joshi has alleged that the West Bengal government blocked the trailer launch and special screening of her upcoming film The Bengal Files, calling it a clear attempt by the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) to suppress the film’s message.
In an interview at her Mumbai residence, Joshi said the makers had planned to unveil the trailer in Kolkata on August 16, marking the 79th anniversary of Direct Action Day — a violent chapter in India’s pre-independence history. The film, directed by Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri, explores the communal riots that rocked Bengal on that day in 1946.
“We were prepared for some resistance,” Joshi said. “But we didn’t expect to be blocked entirely. It was very significant for us to choose Kolkata for the trailer launch, given the history the film deals with.”
Joshi expressed disappointment over the lack of support from the state government. “If something has happened in the past, and if filmmakers try to bring that truth to light, the government should be helping, not silencing us,” she added.
Despite the setback, Joshi said the team has moved forward. “It was hurtful, of course, because it’s your work. But we’re focusing on what’s next.”
The Bengal Files features Mithun Chakraborty, Anupam Kher, and Darshan Kumar in key roles. The film is produced by Abhishek Agarwal, Pallavi Joshi, and Vivek Agnihotri under the banner of I Am Buddha Productions and presented by Tej Narayan Agarwal in association with Zee Studios.
The film is set to hit theatres worldwide on September 5, 2025.