Mallika Prasad has emerged as the unexpected focal point of the Mardaani 3 trailer, released by Yash Raj Films this week, with audiences reacting strongly to her portrayal of Amma, the film’s primary antagonist. The trailer marks the return of Rani Mukerji as ACP Shivani Shivaji Roy and introduces a darker chapter in the franchise’s crime narrative.
Within hours of the trailer’s release, social media conversations shifted from anticipation to shock, largely driven by the quiet menace of Prasad’s character.
What Happened?
The Mardaani 3 trailer unveils Amma as the calculating force behind a brutal human-trafficking network, setting up a high-stakes confrontation with ACP Shivani Shivaji Roy. While the franchise is known for confronting uncomfortable social realities, this instalment appears to push psychological intensity further.
Mallika Prasad’s restrained yet deeply unsettling performance has drawn immediate attention, with viewers describing the character as chilling, disturbing, and difficult to forget.
Official Confirmation or Sources
Responding to the widespread reaction, Mallika Prasad shared an official statement reflecting on her experience with the film.
“Mardaani 3 stands as one of the most defining experiences of my career. Amma is evil yet holds a fierce spirit. It was a privilege to bring her to life,” Prasad said.
She added that the role demanded emotional honesty and vulnerability, noting that characters like Amma require actors to confront uncomfortable internal spaces to portray truthfully.
Jay-Ho! I Industry Context
The Mardaani franchise has built a reputation for crafting antagonists that feel disturbingly real rather than exaggerated. With Amma, the series continues its tradition of grounding villainy in realism, allowing fear to emerge from restraint rather than spectacle.
Industry observers note that such performances elevate crime thrillers by shifting focus from physical violence to psychological control, a space where Prasad’s portrayal appears to thrive. Her performance complements the franchise’s long-standing emphasis on systemic crime and moral conflict.
Public or Fan Reaction
Audience reactions over the first 24 hours ranged from shock to outright fear, with many viewers praising the psychological depth of Amma’s character. Several users noted that the calm exterior made the antagonist even more terrifying, amplifying the emotional stakes of the story.
The performance has already sparked conversations about Amma becoming one of the franchise’s most memorable villains.
What’s Next?
Mallika Prasad also expressed gratitude to director Abhiraj Minawala, producer Aditya Chopra, casting director Shanoo Sharma, and the entire cast and crew for creating an environment that allowed her to explore the character fully.
She concluded by acknowledging Rani Mukerji’s portrayal of Shivani Shivaji Roy, crediting the character’s real-world inspiration as the driving force behind her commitment to portraying Amma with conviction.
Mardaani 3 is scheduled for theatrical release on January 30, 2026.
Jay-Ho! will update this story as more details emerge.
