The North News
Chandigarh, November 5
Filmmaker Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri, best known for The Tashkent Files, The Kashmir Files, and The Bengal Files, on Wednesday called corruption one of India’s gravest challenges, urging political leaders and the judiciary to “root it out completely” for the nation’s progress.
Speaking at the Chandigarh Press Club, Agnihotri said, “Our forefathers faced corruption, our parents faced it, and even today, we continue to suffer because of it. The Prime Minister, Chief Ministers, and the judiciary must now take decisive steps to eliminate it from the system.”
The filmmaker, known for his politically charged storytelling, said his motivation lies in raising the concerns of common citizens through cinema. “Filmmakers often hesitate to make movies on political or social issues. There is no left or right wing in filmmaking — these divisions have been created by television and social media. I work for India,” he said.
Agnihotri revealed that making such politically sensitive films comes with a heavy price. “Once, I was attacked and seriously injured. It also affected my personal life. You can’t move freely like a common person — there’s always a security concern,” he shared.
He urged the government to take responsibility for ensuring that the public can watch films freely. “It is the government’s duty to make all necessary arrangements so that people can see movies without any hurdles. Freedom of expression must be upheld,” he said.
Referring to opposition against his past work, Agnihotri remarked, “Those who wanted to ban our films are the first to watch them.”
Currently in Chandigarh for the screening of his latest movie The Bengal Files, Agnihotri said he has moved beyond controversies and wishes to focus on filmmaking. “I will not fight anymore. I’ll keep making films, and those who want to watch them should be able to do so peacefully,” he added.
Reflecting on personal values, Agnihotri highlighted the importance of mothers in shaping individuals. “A mother plays the most significant role in everyone’s growth. Every achievement comes from her sacrifices,” he said.
Born in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri began his career in advertising before transitioning to filmmaking. Married to actor Pallavi Joshi, who has featured in several of his films, Agnihotri’s work often explores themes of politics, national identity, and social reform.
