IMPPA seeks PM Modi’s intervention on The Bengal Files release in West Bengal
IMPPA seeks PM Modi’s intervention on The Bengal Files release in West Bengal
Given that the controversy surrounding director Vivek Agnihotri’s
Film The Bengal Files has now found entry in the political space. What began in cinema halls is now raising concerns at higher levels.
Reportedly, IMPPA (Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association has addressed a letter to PM.Modi for his intervention claiming claiming that the film has not been allowed to release in West Bengal, even after getting a CBFC clearance.
As per IMPPA, distributors in Bengal are in mess due to political pressure and lack of support. They argue that such blocks impact creative rights and put heavy investments at risk.
However, many are questioning if a Bengal release would really transform the film’s poor performance.
In its opening weekend, The Bengal Files collected around ₹6 crore. Even in Mumbai, one of India’s biggest film markets, the movie earned only ₹1.25 crore out of a potential ₹200 crore market.
Film critic Kamaal R Khan (KRK) tweeted: “You’re upset it hasn’t released in Bengal, but even in Mumbai, which has a much bigger market, people rejected it. West Bengal is just 8% of total business.
Even if it releases there, it won’t help.”
This shows a split in views. On one side, industry groups call it an “unofficial ban” and say it’s a threat to artistic freedom.
Meanwhile on the other side, critics believe the film proved a failure simply because audiences didn’t like it.
With Bengal making up just 8% of India’s box office, it’s unlikely the state could turn a flop into a hit.
News Edit KV Raman
