Vivek Agnihotri’s highly anticipated film, The Delhi Files: The Bengal Chapter, has unveiled its teaser trailer, generating significant buzz. The over two-minute video, released on Abhishek Agarwal Arts’ YouTube channel, offers a first glimpse of Mithun Chakraborty’s character.

The teaser showcases Chakraborty navigating a desolate corridor, his appearance weathered and his demeanour weary. His white beard and rugged attire contribute to a powerful visual, underscored by his halting recitation of the Preamble to the Indian Constitution, his voice raspy and strained, suggesting a character marked by significant hardship.

The scene ends with him leaning heavily on a wall, exhaustion etched onto his face. This powerful image leaves a lasting impression, hinting at the emotional depth of the story to come.

The film itself promises to be a deeply affecting exploration of a pivotal yet often overlooked period in Indian history – the Bengal tragedy. Described as a grand-scale cinematic undertaking, The Delhi Files: The Bengal Chapter aims to bring this significant chapter to life, unveiling a lesser-known part of India’s past.

The production boasts ambitious visuals and a stellar cast, promising an unforgettable cinematic experience that will leave audiences contemplating its profound message. Beyond its entertainment value, the film is expected to ignite crucial conversations surrounding India’s history, political landscape, and intricate social dynamics.

The collaborative effort behind The Delhi Files: The Bengal Chapter is notable. Directed by Agnihotri, the film is jointly produced by Abhishek Agarwal and Pallavi Joshi, and presented by Tej Narayan Agarwal & I Am Buddha Productions. Its worldwide release is scheduled for August 15, 2025, coinciding with India’s Independence Day, a symbolically potent release date that underscores the film’s thematic weight.

Agnihotri himself took to X (formerly Twitter) to share the teaser, describing it as “A tribute to the Constitution of India” and emphasizing the film’s intention to reveal an “epic untold story.” The announcement follows previous posts detailing the commencement of filming in November 2023, and the director’s earlier confirmation that the film would be released in two parts, building anticipation for the upcoming chapters.

Jharkhand’s Republic Day tableau, a vibrant spectacle of colour and movement, presented a compelling narrative of the state’s journey from its rich heritage to its remarkable progress. The tableau, aptly titled “Swarnim Jharkhand: A Tradition of Heritage and Progress,” served as a powerful visual testament to the state’s multifaceted identity. Central to this narrative was the pivotal role played by the late industrialist, Ratan Tata, whose visionary leadership laid the groundwork for much of Jharkhand’s subsequent development.

The tableau’s design was meticulously crafted to showcase this multifaceted narrative. At its heart was Jamshedpur, India’s first planned industrial city, a legacy of Tata’s pioneering efforts. This iconic city, depicted in vivid detail, served as a powerful symbol of industrial growth and modernization. However, the tableau astutely avoided portraying a solely industrial narrative. It carefully integrated elements celebrating Jharkhand’s cultural richness and its commitment to social progress.

A striking image of two young girls engaged with laptop computers underscored Jharkhand’s significant strides in education. This symbolized the state’s dedication to expanding educational access, particularly for tribal children in both urban and rural areas, representing a crucial investment in the future.

The tableau cleverly juxtaposed this modern image with vibrant representations of traditional art forms. Sohrai and Khobar paintings, meticulously crafted by tribal artists, were displayed prominently, showcasing the enduring legacy of Jharkhand’s artistic heritage. Adding to the spectacle, performers enacted the energetic Chhau dance of Seraikela, a captivating dance form deeply rooted in the state’s cultural identity.

The tableau also subtly highlighted the contributions of women in Jharkhand’s economic landscape, acknowledging their significant role in generating employment and driving economic growth. This balanced depiction of industrial progress and cultural preservation made the tableau a truly comprehensive representation of Jharkhand’s identity.

By celebrating both its industrial achievements and its vibrant cultural traditions, the tableau offered a nuanced and multifaceted portrayal of Jharkhand, highlighting its progress while deeply respecting its heritage.

The inclusion of the Jaduguda uranium plant subtly acknowledged the state’s contribution to India’s nuclear energy program. In essence, the tableau was a powerful and memorable celebration of Jharkhand’s journey, skillfully weaving together its past, present, and future.

Karnataka’s 76th Republic Day tableau paid a vibrant tribute to Lakkundi, a historical city nestled in Gadag district, approximately 70 km from Hubballi. Acclaimed as the “Cradle of Stone Craft,” Lakkundi’s architectural splendour took centre stage in the parade along Kartavya Path.

The tableau’s design masterfully captured the essence of Lakkundi’s rich heritage. The forefront showcased the majestic Brahma statue from the Brahma Jinalaya temple, the oldest Jain shrine in the city, dedicated to Lord Mahaveera. Its intricate details and imposing presence immediately drew the viewer’s attention, setting the tone for the tableau’s narrative.

Following the Brahma statue was a depiction of the open-pillared mantapa of the Brahma Jinalaya temple, a testament to the sophisticated architectural techniques employed during the era. The open structure, with its elegant pillars and intricate carvings, added another layer of visual appeal to the tableau’s composition.

The tableau’s main section provided a breathtaking glimpse into the grandeur of Lakkundi’s most prominent temples. The Kashi Vishweshwara temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, stood as a symbol of architectural mastery. Its ornate carvings and imposing structure were vividly represented, highlighting the city’s rich religious and cultural tapestry. Completing the ensemble was the Nanneshwara temple, another significant Shiva temple in Lakkundi, further emphasizing the city’s devotion to Lord Shiva.

The temples of Lakkundi are not merely structures of stone; they are living testaments to the syncretic nature of Karnataka’s culture. They reflect a harmonious blend of different faiths and traditions, showcasing the state’s long-held reputation for religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence. Karnataka, known as the “SarvaJanangadaShaanthiya Thota” or “garden of peace,” embraces diversity, and Lakkundi’s temples embody this spirit.

Beyond its religious significance, Lakkundi’s historical importance cannot be overstated. Once a flourishing commercial hub between the 10th and 12th centuries AD, the city flourished under the rule of various dynasties, with the Chalukyas leaving an indelible mark on its cultural landscape.

The city’s legacy extends beyond its temples; its numerous step wells and inscriptions serve as invaluable historical records. With over 50 temples, most dedicated to Lord Shiva, 101 stepwells, and 29 inscriptions, Lakkundi presents a captivating journey through time, an unparalleled treasure trove for history and architecture enthusiasts. The tableau served as a powerful reminder of Lakkundi’s enduring legacy, highlighting the artistic prowess and cultural richness of the Kalyani Chalukyas.