Bollywood actor Rani Mukerji is set to reprise her iconic role as Superintendent Shivani Shivaji Roy in Mardaani 3, the third chapter in Yash Raj Films’ acclaimed crime thriller franchise. The newly released trailer offers a dark, intense glimpse into a high-stakes investigation centred on the disappearance of young girls, raising the emotional and moral stakes for the fearless police officer.
A Darker, High-Stakes Investigation
The trailer positions Shivani Shivaji Roy as a relentless cop confronting brutal realities in her pursuit of justice. From tense interrogations to gritty action sequences, the visuals underline the urgency of the case and the emotional toll it takes on those involved. The narrative focuses on a disturbing pattern of girls going missing across the country, pushing Shivani into a race against time to uncover the truth and dismantle the forces responsible.
Continuing the Franchise’s Social Focus
Mardaani 3 stays true to the franchise’s legacy of addressing socially relevant and uncomfortable issues. While the first two films tackled human trafficking and systemic violence against women, the third instalment shifts its focus to the chilling reality of missing girls. The trailer suggests a story rooted in realism, highlighting not just crime and punishment, but also the societal failures that allow such crimes to persist.
Rani Mukerji’s Return as Shivani Shivaji Roy
Rani Mukerji’s portrayal of Shivani Shivaji Roy has been one of the defining aspects of the Mardaani series. In the new trailer, she appears more battle-hardened and emotionally driven than ever, reflecting the cumulative weight of years spent fighting crime. Her commanding screen presence and uncompromising approach to justice remain central to the film’s appeal.
Release Date Shift and Creative Team
Directed by Abhiraj Minawala and produced by Aditya Chopra under the Yash Raj Films banner, Mardaani 3 has been repositioned for an earlier theatrical release. The makers have officially announced January 30, 2026, as the new release date, moving it ahead of its initially planned February window. The decision is seen as a strategic move to capitalise on audience anticipation generated by the powerful trailer.
Fan Response and Expectations
The Mardaani franchise holds a unique place in Hindi cinema as one of the few major female-led crime series. Fans have welcomed Rani Mukerji’s return with enthusiasm, praising the trailer for its gritty tone and thematic depth. With its intense subject matter and strong central performance, Mardaani 3 is expected to continue the series’ reputation for impactful storytelling and social relevance.
Jay-Ho! will update this story as more details emerge.
