In Indian cinema, some films rise beyond storytelling to depict stark chapters of history. The Bengal Files, directed by Vivek Agnihotri, seeks to bring alive the horrific communal riots that shook Kolkata in 1946. The film demanded not just technical brilliance but also immense emotional strength from its cast and crew, including actress and producer Pallavi Joshi.
Recalling her experience, Joshi revealed that filming riot sequences was particularly challenging. “Thousands had died in reality, and showcasing that on screen with authenticity was a massive task. While dummy bodies were used, many actors also had to lie down as corpses, with their skin darkened and fake blood poured over them to recreate the tragedy,” she explained.
She admitted the haunting realism took a toll on her. “Even when everything was technically correct, we constantly questioned if the wounds looked real. When you remember those images, you realize these were real events, real deaths. That thought is terrifying—it disturbs you and robs you of sleep,” Joshi shared.
Her words reflect the emotional weight the film’s subject carries, as The Bengal Files gears up to bring one of India’s darkest episodes to the big screen.
