The Bengal Files Controversy: Gopal Patha’s Legacy Under Fire as Family Speaks Out Against Vivek Agnihotri’s Portrayal

Vivek Agnihotri’s latest film, “The Bengal Files,” is stirring controversy just weeks ahead of its theatrical release on September 5, 2025. Following the success of “The Tashkent Files” and “The Kashmir Files,” Agnihotri’s new project aims to delve into the tumultuous history of West Bengal, specifically focusing on the 1946 Great Calcutta Killings and the Noakhali riots. However, the film’s portrayal of Gopal ‘Patha’ Mukherjee has drawn significant criticism, leading to a public outcry from his family.

Initially titled “The Delhi Files,” the film’s name was changed to “The Bengal Files” to better reflect its historical context. The timing of the release also raises eyebrows, coinciding with the upcoming West Bengal Legislative Assembly elections in March-April 2026, prompting accusations of political opportunism.

Gopal Patha, whose real name was Gopal Mukherjee, played a crucial role during the Great Calcutta Killings, which erupted following the Muslim League’s call for Direct Action Day on August 16, 1946. His grandson, Santanu Mukherjee, has spoken out about his grandfather’s actions during this period, emphasizing that Gopal Patha took up arms to protect Hindus from violent rioters.

In an interview, Santanu recounted, “My grandfather took up arms during the Great Calcutta Killings to save Hindus from marauding Muslim rioters that were killing men, raping women, and burning down Hindu properties. But he bore no ill will towards Muslims.” He further noted that Gopal Patha had also saved innocent Muslims during the riots, showcasing a more nuanced perspective of his grandfather’s character.

These sentiments were echoed in a 1997 interview where Gopal Patha articulated his strict orders to his followers, emphasizing respect for women and condemning violence against them. He stated, “I had given strict orders not to misbehave with women because a person’s character is very important.”

The trailer for “The Bengal Files” presents Gopal Patha as a fierce character, complete with a red tilak on his forehead, addressing a crowd while invoking nationalist sentiments. His dialogue suggests a stark view of the socio-political climate of the time, declaring, “Bharat Hinduon Ka Rashtra Hai. Par iss yuddh mein Hindu haar rahe hain. Aur jeet kaun raha hai? Jinnah.” (India is a Hindu nation. But the Hindus are losing this war. And who’s winning? Jinnah.)

The film’s portrayal of Patha includes graphic depictions of violence, which has raised concerns about how history is being represented. Bengali actor Saurav Das plays the role of Gopal Patha, and he has since distanced himself from the project in light of the backlash, stating that he was unaware of the full script during filming.

During the trailer launch event, Agnihotri addressed the uproar surrounding Gopal Patha’s portrayal, clarifying that the character is inspired by historical figures rather than an exact representation of Patha himself. “I have nothing to do with Gopal Mukherjee’s life, politics. He was a hero, and I have shown him as a hero… I respect Gopal Mukherjee a lot,” he stated, attempting to deflect criticism by emphasizing his respect for the historical figure.

Agnihotri’s comments have not quelled the controversy, as the film continues to face scrutiny over its historical accuracy and the implications of its narrative.

In response to the film’s portrayal, Gopal Patha’s family has taken legal action against Vivek Agnihotri. Santanu Mukherjee has filed an FIR and sent a legal notice alleging that Agnihotri referred to Gopal Patha derogatorily in a personal reel, calling him “Ek Tha Kasai Gopal Patha” (Once Upon A Time There Was A Butcher Called Gopal Patha).

Santanu expressed his discontent, stating, “He was not a butcher. He was a wrestler, a freedom fighter, and a member of the Anushilan Samiti. His ideology was aligned with Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.” He criticized Agnihotri for not consulting the family during the film’s production and for perpetuating misinformation about Gopal Patha’s legacy.

As “The Bengal Files” gears up for its release, it serves as a focal point for discussions surrounding the portrayal of historical figures in cinema. Some argue that films should not be held to the standards of historical accuracy, while others contend that creative liberties should not distort the truth.

In an age where social media amplifies controversies, the film’s narrative and its implications will likely remain in the spotlight. With a cast that includes notable actors such as Pallavi Joshi, Anupam Kher, and Mithun Chakraborty, “The Bengal Files” is set to create waves, regardless of its reception.

As the debate continues over how history is depicted in films, the legacy of Gopal Patha and the events of 1946 will undoubtedly be scrutinized, prompting audiences to reflect on the intersection of art, history, and politics. The film’s impending release ensures that the conversation around it will persist long after it hits theaters, making it a significant cultural moment in contemporary Indian cinema.