Gopal Patha: The ‘Butcher of Bengal’ played by Sourav Das in Vivek Agnihotri’s The Bengal Files
Sourav Das steps into the shoes of Gopal Patha, the notorious 'Butcher of Bengal', in Vivek Agnihotri's The Bengal Files. The film promises a gripping yet controversial dive into history and violence. Read on to uncover how Das's portrayal shapes the narrative and whether it hi
New Delhi: The life of Gopal Chandra Mukherjee, famously known as Gopal ‘Patha’, has been brought to the big screen in Vivek Agnihotri’s latest release, The Bengal Files. The film hit the theatres on September 5.
Born in Kolkata in 1913, Gopal earned the nickname ‘Patha’, meaning goat in Bengali, due to his family-run meat shop on College Street. Standing at just five feet four inches, he became a formidable figure in Calcutta’s history. He was also known for his muscle power and leadership of a gang prepared to fight for the city.
Who was Gopal Patha?
Gopal rose to prominence during one of the most turbulent periods in Indian history. By the 1940s, the two-nation theory had sparked communal tension across Bengal. The Muslim League, led by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, planned to assert control over Calcutta through a show of force. This culminated in the infamous Direct Action Day on August 16, 1946, ordered by League leader Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy. Hindu households were attacked, shops looted, and many lives were lost.
Gopal was often described as a protector of Hindus who mobilised hundreds of men to counter the League’s agenda. Armed with knives, rods, spears, and even revolvers sourced after World War II, he led his forces to defend Calcutta. Funding came from local Marwari traders, while Vyayam Samitis, who had been part of the freedom struggle, joined the effort. Gopal reportedly instructed his men: "In response to one murder, you kill 10 of the attackers,” asserting strict control over his militia. Over the following days, it became clear that the League could not overpower him, preventing Calcutta from falling under their control.
Despite his reputation, Gopal’s family emphasises that he was not anti-Muslim. He reportedly sheltered several Muslim families during the riots, including that of a rickshaw-puller known as Rafique chacha. His grandson, Santanu Mukherjee, has expressed concern over the film’s portrayal of Gopal Patha as a "rabble-rousing Muslim-hating butcher,” arguing that it misrepresents his grandfather’s convictions and historic role.
Gopal’s own words underline his disciplined approach: "I had strict orders not to misbehave with or kill women, even if they were Muslims… do not loot and do not misbehave with women.” He passed away in 2005, leaving behind a complex legacy that continues to spark debate.
More about The Bengal Files
Sourav Das takes on the challenging role of Gopal Patha in The Bengal Files, bringing to life a figure whose life is intertwined with both violence and protection heroism and controversy. The film has reignited conversations about historical representation. It also stars Anupam Kher, Darshan Kumar, Pallavi Joshi, Mithun Chakraborty, and Simrat Kaur Randhawa in lead roles. heroism