A fresh political storm is brewing over two upcoming films — Kesari Chapter 2 and The Bengal Files — as the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has strongly condemned both projects for allegedly misrepresenting Bengal’s historical legacy and portraying its freedom fighters in a disrespectful manner. The party has demanded an immediate apology from the makers, calling the films “an assault on truth” and “a disgrace to those who gave their lives for the country’s independence.”
The controversy gained traction after the trailers of both films were released online, sparking heated debate on social media. Several scenes and dialogues, according to the TMC, are not only factually inaccurate but also designed to malign Bengal’s image and question the contributions of its revolutionaries.
Senior TMC leader and Member of Parliament, Derek O’Brien, addressed the issue publicly and issued a stern statement, saying, “These films do not just fictionalize history — they pervert it. Bengal was at the forefront of India’s freedom movement, and our martyrs deserve respect, not distortion. We strongly object to any attempt to politicize or communalize our freedom struggle through irresponsible storytelling.”
Referring to specific sequences in Kesari Chapter 2 that allegedly depict revolutionary leaders in a negative light, the TMC has claimed that such representations are part of a larger narrative meant to provoke and polarize audiences. Similarly, The Bengal Files is being criticized for what the party describes as “manufactured propaganda” that tarnishes Bengal’s contribution to the national cause.
Several historians and intellectuals from West Bengal have echoed the TMC’s concerns, calling on filmmakers to exercise responsibility when dealing with sensitive subjects like India’s freedom movement. “Creative liberty cannot come at the cost of historical truth,” said Dr. Rituparna Chatterjee, a professor of modern Indian history. “Our freedom fighters sacrificed everything for this nation. Their memory should be honored, not twisted for box office numbers or political gain.”
The TMC has also submitted a formal complaint to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), demanding a thorough review of both films before their release. The party has called for the removal of objectionable content and a public apology from the filmmakers.
“This is not about stifling creativity,” emphasized another TMC spokesperson, “but about protecting the legacy of real heroes who gave us the freedom we enjoy today. There is a difference between making art and spreading misinformation.”
While the filmmakers have yet to respond to the criticism, sources close to the production teams of both films suggest they are currently reviewing the backlash and may issue a clarification soon.
In the meantime, the TMC has made it clear that it will not back down until justice is done. “We owe it to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Khudiram Bose, Matangini Hazra, and countless others,” said O’Brien. “This is not just a matter of political disagreement — it’s about national honor.”
As tensions escalate, the matter is likely to spark wider debate on the role of cinema in shaping public memory and the ethical boundaries of creative expression. Whether the filmmakers will respond with revisions or stand by their content remains to be seen.
