Summary of "The Bengal Files: Kashmir Files से भी खतरनाक कौन सा सच? | Vivek Agnihotri Podcast With Sushant Sinha"

The video features a detailed interview with filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri discussing his new film The Bengal Files, positioned as a follow-up to his earlier Kashmir Files and Delhi Files. The film explores the historical and ongoing persecution and genocide of Hindus in Bengal, drawing parallels between the communal violence of the 1940s (notably the Direct Action Day and Noakhali genocide) and the current socio-political climate in Bengal. Agnihotri argues that Bengal is becoming “another Kashmir,” warning that if unchecked, the same patterns of violence and demographic change could escalate into a major internal security threat for India.

Key Points and Arguments:

Trilogy Concept and Themes: Agnihotri explains that The Bengal Files is part of a trilogy focusing on three pillars of democracy—truth, justice, and the right to life—expressed through stories of political and communal violence in India. The trilogy began with Tashkent Files (truth), followed by Kashmir Files (justice), and now The Bengal Files (right to life).
Historical Context of Bengal Violence: The film revisits the 1946 Direct Action Day, which led to horrific communal violence against Hindus in Bengal, including mass killings, rapes, and demographic engineering aimed at reducing the Hindu population. Agnihotri highlights documented atrocities such as naked Hindu women being hanged in public spaces and the role of political and police collusion in the violence.
Contemporary Parallels: Agnihotri draws a direct line from the past to present-day Bengal, alleging ongoing political intimidation, demographic changes through illegal immigration, and suppression of Hindu rights. He claims that the ruling party in Bengal (TMC) uses criminal gangs and illegal immigrants to maintain power, suppress opposition, and intimidate Hindu voters.
Censorship and Political Pressure: The film faced significant obstacles in Bengal, including denial of shooting permissions, inability to launch the trailer, and refusal by theaters to screen it due to political pressure and fear of violence. Agnihotri expresses regret and frustration over this censorship, emphasizing the importance of telling these stories.
Critique of Historical Narratives and Leaders: The discussion challenges popular narratives around Gandhi and Nehru, portraying Gandhi as a “defeated leader” who failed to prevent India’s partition and the Hindu genocide in Bengal. Agnihotri references Gandhi’s controversial statements during the Noakhali riots, including his appeal to Hindu women to commit self-sacrifice, and presents Jinnah’s communal politics as a root cause of division.
Hindu Victimhood and Historical Oppression: Agnihotri asserts that Hindus have been the most persecuted community in Indian history for over 1200 years, suffering under Islamic and later British rule. He emphasizes that this history has been ignored or suppressed in mainstream discourse and calls for acknowledgment of Hindu suffering and victimhood.
Communal Relations and Current Politics: The film and discussion address ongoing Hindu-Muslim tensions, arguing that such conflicts are not new or solely a post-2014 phenomenon under BJP rule but have historical roots. Agnihotri stresses the need for Hindus to understand their history and organize themselves to protect their rights and identity.
Representation and Bollywood’s Role: Agnihotri criticizes Bollywood for not supporting films that portray Hindu history and victimhood, suggesting a bias against such narratives. He contrasts this with the many films made about Kashmir and Muslim perspectives, highlighting a perceived imbalance in storytelling.
Call for Awareness and Action: The filmmaker urges audiences to watch The Bengal Files to understand the “bold truth” about Bengal’s past and present, to recognize the “face of evil,” and to awaken Hindu society to its historical and current challenges. He emphasizes that knowing history is essential for securing the future and stopping communal violence.
Muslim Voices and Support: Agnihotri acknowledges that not all Muslims are antagonistic and highlights young educated Muslims who support his work and oppose terrorism. He calls for the Muslim community in India to stand against extremism and embrace national unity, including saying “Vande Mataram.”

Summary of the Film’s Impact and Reception:

The Bengal Files is described as the boldest film yet on Hindu persecution, tackling taboo subjects ignored by politicians and mainstream media.
The film’s portrayal of communal violence, political manipulation, and demographic changes has sparked controversy and attempts at suppression in Bengal.
Agnihotri’s narrative challenges established historical and political orthodoxies, seeking to reshape public understanding of India’s partition, communalism, and Hindu victimhood.