Rani Mukerji is back in uniform as the fearless cop Shivani Shivaji Roy in Mardaani 3, the third instalment of Yash Raj Films’ acclaimed crime drama franchise. After a six-year gap since Mardaani 2 (2019), the film finally hit theatres worldwide on January 30, 2026, opening to strong audience reactions but a relatively modest start at the box offi
Box Office Update: Slow Opening Despite Strong Buzz
Despite high expectations, Mardaani 3 began its theatrical run on a cautious note. The film recorded around ₹1.16 crore in advance ticket sales, with estimated collections touching ₹2–2.3 crore when blocked seats are included. Releasing solely in Hindi and facing competition from Sunny Deol’s Border 2, the film’s opening numbers were lower than anticipated.
What Is Mardaani 3 About?
Directed by Abhiraj Minawala and written by Aayush Gupta, Mardaani 3 tackles another grim social reality. This time, Shivani Shivaji Roy races against time to dismantle a brutal child-trafficking network responsible for the abduction of multiple young girls.
The film introduces a powerful new antagonist — Mallika Prasad’s Amma, marking the first time Shivani faces a female villain in the franchise. Janaki Bodiwala, known for Shaitaan, also plays a pivotal role.
The narrative stays grounded, intense, and emotionally heavy, continuing the franchise’s tradition of confronting uncomfortable truths without cinematic dilution
Audience Reactions: Rani Mukerji Wins Praise as the Story Hits Hard
Mardaani 3 has received an encouraging response from audiences and critics alike, with many applauding its emotional depth and strong social relevance. Viewers have described the film as a gritty, hard-hitting crime drama that grips attention, especially in the second half, leading to a powerful and emotionally charged climax.
Rani Mukerji’s performance has emerged as the film’s biggest strength. Audiences have lauded her for portraying Shivani Shivaji Roy with authority, restraint, and conviction. Many feel she brings an unmatched intensity to the role, once again proving why she is considered the heart and soul of the Mardaani franchise. For several fans, the character feels inseparable from the actor, making it difficult to imagine anyone else stepping into the role.
That said, a section of viewers felt that while the film succeeds emotionally, the antagonist’s backstory could have been developed in greater detail to add more depth to the conflict. Despite this minor criticism, the overall sentiment remains positive, with audiences appreciating the film’s sincerity and fearless approach to a sensitive subject.
Comparisons With Earlier Films
Some fans compared Mardaani 3 to mainstream cop dramas like Singham, calling it a more realistic and grounded version of the genre. Unlike stylised action spectacles, the film keeps its focus firmly on the human cost of crime and the emotional toll on those fighting it.
The first Mardaani (2014) exposed the horrors of human trafficking, while Mardaani 2 delved into the psyche of a serial criminal. The third instalment builds on that legacy by addressing another dark chapter of societal failure.
Comparisons With Earlier Films
Some fans compared Mardaani 3 to mainstream cop dramas like Singham, calling it a more realistic and grounded version of the genre. Unlike stylised action spectacles, the film keeps its focus firmly on the human cost of crime and the emotional toll on those fighting it.
The first Mardaani (2014) exposed the horrors of human trafficking, while Mardaani 2 delved into the psyche of a serial criminal. The third instalment builds on that legacy by addressing another dark chapter of societal failure.
Rani Mukerji on the Film’s Message
Leading up to the release, Rani Mukerji repeatedly emphasised that Mardaani 3 is not just a film, but a conversation starter.
She described playing a woman in uniform for the third time as a “privilege,” stating that Shivani Shivaji Roy represents quiet courage, resilience, and responsibility. Rani has urged women and young girls to watch the film, calling it a story of empowerment, awareness, and hope.
She also dedicated the film to the Indian police force, especially women officers who serve under constant scrutiny and pressure.
OTT Release Plans
Following its run in cinemas, Mardaani 3 is set to make its way to Netflix, with reports suggesting a streaming debut on March 27, 2026. The OTT release is expected to help the film connect with a wider audience, especially viewers who gravitate towards intense, socially driven storytelling over mainstream spectacle.
Final Word
Mardaani 3 may not have opened with massive box-office numbers, but its strong performances, intense storytelling, and socially relevant theme position it as a film that could grow steadily through word of mouth.
With Rani Mukerji delivering yet another powerful turn as Shivani Shivaji Roy, the franchise once again proves that meaningful cinema can be gripping, uncomfortable, and impactful — all at once.
