Vivek Agnihotri’s The Bengal Files has finally been released in theaters, but its initial performance at the box office has been less than stellar. The film had generated a lot of discussion even before its release. The filmmakers also faced hurdles during the trailer launch, but the movie is now in cinemas, and its first-day collection figures have been revealed.
Despite the controversies surrounding its release, the film managed to earn ₹1.75 crore (total India collection) on its opening day, according to reports. The film’s debut was further complicated by the fact that it did not release in cinemas in West Bengal, similar to the previous films The Tashkent Files and The Kashmir Files.
Compared to the director’s previous blockbuster films, the initial numbers for The Bengal Files are significantly lower. The Kashmir Files, which was released in 2022, earned ₹3.55 crore on its first day and became one of the most talked-about hits in recent years. With an opening of ₹1.75 crore, The Bengal Files has only achieved approximately 30% of that amount.
The film continues to be a subject of debate among the public. On the social media platform X, some users described the film as a harsh cinematic experience, highlighting the horrors of Direct Action Day. Others, however, have dismissed it as propaganda, fueling the debate surrounding Agnihotri’s filmmaking style. The popularity of the film in the coming days will largely depend on the audience’s response and word-of-mouth promotion.