With The Bengal Files, which is produced by Abhishek Agarwal and Pallavi Joshi and directed by Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri, Darshan Kumar is taking on one of the most demanding roles of his career. On September 5, 2025, the film—which examines the horrific events of Direct Action Day—will be released. It is expected to be both an educational and cinematic experience.

Kumar plays a truthful CBI agent assigned to a politically delicate case in Bengal.

“I play the role of an honest CBI officer who reaches Bengal to handle a sensitive case. Because Vivek ji wrote such a complex character, it has been one of the hardest roles to play. I thoroughly researched the CBI’s operations and how they manage delicate and demanding cases in order to get ready for the position. I watched in-person interviews, reviewed reports, and even had conversations with a few system experts. I wanted to emulate the proper conduct, attitude, and body language of a CBI officer. I put a lot of effort into feeling and looking the part. I even put on almost 14 kg for the part. I lived his discipline, his stillness, and his internal struggles; I didn’t just pretend to be a CBI officer,” said Darshan Kumar.

Darshan was as passionate about the film’s message, and said, “The Bengal Files is not just a film — it’s a history lesson. And there’s a reason it’s being released on Teachers’ Day. It tells us about Direct Action Day, a terrible chapter that we were never educated enough about. It was real, violent, and horrifying. Individuals will leave the theater with more than just feelings; they will also have gained knowledge. And with any luck, that information will prevent a similar incident from occurring in the future”.

The film is written and directed by Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri, produced by Abhishek Agarwal and Pallavi Joshi. The film stars Mithun Chakraborty, Anupam Kher, Darshan Kumar, Pallavi Joshi, amongst the ensemble of cast.

The film releases in theatres on September 5, 2025.

Priyanka Dutta