Mardaani 3 Review: Rani Mukerji Returns With Raw Power

New Delhi, 30 Jan 2026 — Mardaani 3, the most awaited female-led Bollywood thriller of the year, hit theaters on Friday with audiences and critics sharing instant reactions. The third installment of the Mardaani franchise sees Rani Mukerji back in the iconic role of DCP Shivani Shivaji Roy, delivering a performance that many are calling intense, impactful, and emotionally charged.

Mardaani 3 Release Sparks Buzz

The movie hit screens across India this Friday amid high expectations from the popular series. Yash Raj Films chose this date to match the story's fight against evil, much like festivals celebrating good triumphs.

Directed by newcomer Abhiraj Minawala, it promises a darker edge than before. Early shows sold out in key cities like Delhi and Mumbai, showing strong fan love despite big competition from films like Border 2.

Rani shared a touching note on her 30-year career milestone, calling Shivani her "most special character." This personal touch has fans emotional and ready to cheer.​

Rani Mukerji Raw Power Return

Rani shines as Shivani, the tough officer who fears nothing. Viewers say her screen time feels electric, with sharp dialogues and fierce fights that make you root for her every step.

At 48, she pulls off intense stunts without fancy effects, keeping it real and believable. One fan tweeted, "Rani dominates the screen like no one else in this franchise."​

Her training for the role included real police drills, adding depth to every punch and chase. This isn't just acting; it's Rani channeling pure strength.

Gripping Plot Child Trafficking Fight

Shivani tackles a kidnapping of an ambassador's daughter and a poor girl's caregiver kid. It uncovers a shady network run by "Amma" (Mallika Prasad), who forces girls into begging and worse by drugging them.

The first half hooks you fast with twists linking diplomats to street mafia. No over-the-top drama—just smart police work exposing hidden crimes.​

Inspired by true events, it shines light on India's dark underbelly, making you think while on the edge of your seat. Second half ramps up with brutal clashes.​

Strong Cast Backs Rani's Lead

Mallika Prasad steals scenes as the cold-hearted Amma, a villain fans call "chilling yet real." Her clash with Shivani feels personal and fierce.

Janki Bodiwala and Mikhail Yawalkar add solid support as key allies and foes. Inspector Balwinder Sodhi returns, bringing team spirit to the action.

Crew details show a tight budget of around 68 crore, focused on story over stars. This smart choice keeps the film grounded.

Day 1 Box Office Decent Start

Advance bookings hit 48 lakh gross, with 16,450 tickets sold despite rivals. Delhi led at 10.51 lakh, Maharashtra close behind.

Predictions peg opening at 3.5-4.5 crore net India, third biggest Bollywood opener this year after heavyweights. Over 5,000 shows nationwide give it legs.

Lifetime hopes ride on word-of-mouth; past films grew big on praise. Track real-time collections as weekend unfolds.

Mardaani Franchise Legacy Deep Dive

First Mardaani (2014) exposed trafficking, earning 35.85 crore on bold story. Rani's Oscar buzz moment came from its global appeal.

Mardaani 2 (2019) upped stakes with a serial killer hunt, hitting 47.57 crore. Shivani's growth from mom-cop to justice machine won hearts.​

Now part 3 ties real crimes like beggar syndicates, evolving the series. Total franchise impact: Raised awareness, inspired cop films.