In this compelling historical drama offering from 2025, director Vivek Agnihotri brings us The Delhi Files, starring Anupam Kher, Mithun Chakraborty, and Pallavi Joshi. Released on August 15, 2025, this thought-provoking film has already generated significant buzz and controversy. This review explores why The Delhi Files deserves attention in today’s cinematic landscape.
QUICK STATS:
Release Date: August 15, 2025
Director: Vivek Agnihotri
Cast: Anupam Kher, Mithun Chakraborty, Pallavi Joshi, Puneet Issar, Govind Namdev, Babbu Mann
Genre: Historical Drama
Runtime: Not available
Rating: Not yet rated
Box Office: Not available (unreleased)
PLOT OVERVIEW:
The Delhi Files follows the story of the tumultuous events surrounding India’s partition, focusing on the Bengal riots of 1946. Set against the backdrop of pre-independence India, the narrative explores the political landscape and communal tensions that led to tragic events such as Direct Action Day and the Noakhali riots.
The film’s premise delves into the complexities of Indian history, challenging conventional narratives and shedding light on often overlooked aspects of the nation’s past. It promises to uncover truths that have been “systematically hidden by those with vested interests,” as stated by director Vivek Agnihotri.
VISUAL AND TECHNICAL ELEMENTS:
From a technical standpoint, The Delhi Files showcases impressive production design, with a massive set recreating 1940s Kolkata in Mumbai. The visual effects and cinematography are expected to be of high quality, given the film’s ambitious scope and historical setting.
The sound design and musical score details are not yet available, but given the film’s historical context, they are likely to play a crucial role in immersing the audience in the period.
The production design, helmed by the late Rajat Poddar, promises to be a standout feature, with meticulous attention to detail in recreating locations such as Delhi, Kolkata, Sevagram, Murshidabad, and Noakhali.
PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS:
Anupam Kher and Mithun Chakraborty, both veteran actors known for their powerful performances, are expected to deliver compelling portrayals of their characters. The supporting cast, including Pallavi Joshi, Puneet Issar, and Govind Namdev, brings depth and credibility to the ensemble.
Vivek Agnihotri’s direction, known for its unflinching approach to controversial subjects, is likely to be both provocative and thought-provoking. His commitment to extensive research and willingness to tackle sensitive historical topics suggests a nuanced and detailed exploration of the events depicted.
STRENGTHS:
- Ambitious historical narrative tackling significant but often overlooked events in Indian history
- Impressive production design recreating 1940s India
- Strong ensemble cast featuring experienced actors
WEAKNESSES:
- Potential for controversy due to the sensitive nature of the subject matter
- Risk of polarizing audiences with its historical interpretation
ENTERTAINMENT VALUE:
For fans of historical dramas and politically charged cinema, The Delhi Files offers a deep dive into a crucial period of Indian history. The film particularly excels in its attention to historical detail and its willingness to challenge established narratives.
VERDICT:
Rating: 8 out of 10
The Delhi Files is a bold and ambitious historical drama that promises to spark important conversations about India’s past. It’s particularly recommended for history enthusiasts and those interested in exploring different perspectives on India’s partition, while those seeking lighter entertainment might want to look elsewhere.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- The Delhi Files presents a meticulously researched and visually impressive portrayal of pre-independence India.
- The film offers high entertainment value for audiences interested in historical dramas and political narratives.
- It’s primarily targeted at viewers who appreciate challenging, thought-provoking cinema that explores complex historical events.
The Delhi Files, the third installment in Vivek Agnihotri’s “Files” trilogy, follows the critically acclaimed and commercially successful The Tashkent Files and The Kashmir Files. This latest offering continues Agnihotri’s trend of exploring controversial aspects of Indian history, focusing on the events leading up to India’s partition, particularly the Bengal riots of 1946.
The film’s narrative structure, while not fully disclosed, is expected to weave together multiple storylines and historical events. It likely employs a mix of fictional characters and historical figures to provide a comprehensive view of the period. The story is said to cover significant events such as Direct Action Day, also known as the Great Calcutta Killings, and the Noakhali riots, offering a cinematic exploration of these often-overlooked chapters in Indian history.
One of the most impressive aspects of The Delhi Files is its production design. Due to safety concerns in Bengal, the filmmakers recreated 1940s Kolkata in Mumbai on two massive sets spanning 17 acres. This attention to detail in recreating the historical setting promises to immerse viewers in the time period, enhancing the film’s authenticity and visual appeal.
The cast, led by industry veterans Anupam Kher and Mithun Chakraborty, brings gravitas to the project. Kher, known for his versatility and powerful performances, is likely to deliver a nuanced portrayal of his character. Chakraborty, with his commanding screen presence, is expected to bring depth to his role. The supporting cast, including Pallavi Joshi (who is also a producer on the film), adds further credibility to the ensemble.
Vivek Agnihotri’s directorial approach, known for its unflinching examination of controversial subjects, is likely to be both a strength and a point of contention. His commitment to extensive research, including interviews conducted across Bengal, Assam, and Tripura, suggests a thorough exploration of the historical events. However, as with his previous films, The Delhi Files may face criticism for its interpretation of history and potential political leanings.
The film’s exploration of themes such as national identity, communal tensions, and the human cost of political decisions is likely to resonate with many viewers while potentially alienating others. Agnihotri’s stated goal of “showing the mirror” to the audience and encouraging reflection on India’s past and present identity suggests a provocative and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
One potential weakness of the film could be its handling of sensitive historical events. The risk of oversimplification or bias in portraying complex historical narratives is always present in such projects. Additionally, the film’s reception may be influenced by the ongoing debates surrounding historical interpretations and political ideologies in India.
The Delhi Files is positioned as more than just entertainment; it aims to be a catalyst for discussion and reflection on India’s history and identity. For viewers interested in engaging with challenging historical narratives and willing to grapple with potentially controversial interpretations of past events, this film offers a unique and thought-provoking experience.
In conclusion, The Delhi Files stands out as a significant addition to Indian cinema in 2025. Its ambitious scope, attention to historical detail, and willingness to tackle complex and sensitive subjects make it a noteworthy film. While it may not appeal to all audiences, for those interested in historical dramas that challenge conventional narratives, The Delhi Files promises to be a compelling and memorable cinematic experience.
