Vivek Agnihotri’s latest film, The Bengal Files, released on September 5, explores the 1946 massacre of Hindus in Kolkata with a narrative that blends detailed research and emotional storytelling. While the film has been praised for its investigative approach, one of its most debated scenes involves the portrayal of Mahatma Gandhi.

In the movie, Gandhi, played by Anupam Kher, is shown allegedly advising Hindu women to commit suicide to avoid assault during communal violence—a claim that has sparked controversy.

Director Agnihotri has previously posted on social media that Gandhi’s advice during such times was, “Women must learn how to die before a hair of their head could be injured.” The film presents a scene where Gandhi allegedly tells a character, “If anyone touches even a single hair of any woman, she should commit suicide. She can sacrifice her life by biting her tongue or holding her breath.”

However, historical records and Gandhi’s documented statements present a very different perspective. According to Gandhian sources, including mkgandhi.org, Gandhi encouraged women to resist assault actively. In 1940, he said, “I have always held that it is physically impossible to violate a woman against her will. The outrage takes place only when she gives way to fear or does not realise her moral strength.”

In 1942, he explicitly advocated self-defence, stating, “When a woman is assaulted she may not stoop to think in terms of himsa or ahimsa. Her primary duty is self-protection. She is at liberty to employ every method or means that come to her mind in order to defend her honour. God has given her nails and teeth. She must use them with all her strength and, if need be, die in the effort.”

These statements indicate that Gandhi did not advocate suicide to avoid assault but promoted active resistance, using all means available, even if it meant dying while defending oneself. The film’s portrayal, therefore, diverges from his recorded words, presenting a controversial interpretation of his views on sexual violence.