Rani Mukerji is back in uniform—and with a vengeance. The acclaimed actress returns as the fierce cop Shivani Shivaji Roy in Mardaani 3, and the makers have unveiled her intense first look along with the film’s official release date.
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Rani Mukerji Returns To The Beat With Grit And Guts
Rani Mukerji is back in action, and this time, she’s fiercer than ever. The first look of Mardaani 3 has dropped, reigniting excitement among fans who’ve long awaited her return as the indomitable Shivani Shivaji Roy. The latest chapter in Yash Raj Films’ acclaimed franchise promises to elevate the bar of gritty crime thrillers, with Rani stepping back into the shoes of the no-nonsense cop.
Dressed in a commanding all-black outfit—buttoned shirt, blue jeans, and combat boots—Rani’s Shivani points a gun with steely focus in the poster, hinting at the storm to come. The announcement arrived via YRF’s Instagram handle, alongside a bold caption that read: “The countdown begins for #Mardaani3! On Holi, good will fight evil as Shivani Shivaji Roy returns to the big screen on February 27, 2026.”
Symbolism Behind The Release Date
The film’s release date has been strategically chosen—February 27, 2026—coinciding with the festive week of Holi, which falls on March 4 that year. Holi, known for celebrating the victory of virtue over vice, aligns seamlessly with the film’s core theme. This thematic resonance hints at a narrative packed with moral confrontations and intense showdowns between the forces of justice and lawlessness.
By selecting this symbolic period, the makers intend to amplify the film’s essence—a harrowing tale where righteousness confronts dark, brutal forces. With Mardaani 3, fans can expect an emotionally charged storyline laced with action, integrity, and raw power.
Mardaani 3: Darker, Bolder, Bloodier
If Rani’s look wasn’t enough to stir anticipation, her own words about the film certainly are. Speaking about the project, she shared, the thriller is “dark, deadly and brutal.” These three words alone have sent fans into a frenzy, bracing themselves for a hard-hitting cinematic journey that doesn’t flinch from uncomfortable truths.
Online reactions have been nothing short of electrifying. Comments poured in moments after the poster reveal, showcasing the unwavering fanbase this franchise has cultivated. One user wrote, “This one franchise is far, far better than all Salman and Ranbir movies,” while another noted, “Wow, what a look. Rani is slaying it and how.” The admiration didn’t stop there. A fan passionately shared, “She is brutal this time. My Rani is back,” and another enthusiastically stated, “Rani ain’t playing. Criminals better take early retirement.”
Franchise With A Feminist Backbone
With Mardaani and Mardaani 2, Rani Mukerji broke away from the conventional tropes surrounding female characters in Hindi cinema. Shivani Shivaji Roy emerged as a symbol of courage, commitment, and unflinching resolve. In a landscape often dominated by male-led cop dramas, this series carved its own identity—earning critical acclaim and achieving box office success.
The character’s grounded persona, free from glamour and artifice, combined with her relentless pursuit of justice, struck a chord with viewers. It’s no surprise that the franchise is now regarded as Hindi cinema’s most successful female-led action saga.
Team Behind The Action
While plot details are deliberately being kept under wraps, what we do know is enough to set expectations high. Directed by Abhiraj Minawala, who steps into the gritty world of Mardaani for the first time, and penned by Aayush Gupta, the script is reportedly layered with twists and psychological depth.
Produced by Aditya Chopra, a name synonymous with big-screen blockbusters and character-driven storytelling, the film is expected to maintain the high standards set by its predecessors. The production house’s confidence in this third installment reflects their trust in the story’s relevance and the character’s enduring appeal.
FAQs
When is Mardaani 3 set to release?
Mardaani 3 will be released on February 27, 2026, coinciding with the festive week of Holi.
Who plays the role of Shivani Shivaji Roy in Mardaani 3?
Rani Mukerji returns as the fearless cop, Shivani Shivaji Roy, in Mardaani 3.
What is the first look of Mardaani 3?
The first look of Mardaani 3 features Rani Mukerji in a black shirt, blue denims, and black boots, pointing a gun at the camera with a fierce expression.
What is the theme of Mardaani 3?
Mardaani 3 is a dark, deadly, and brutal thriller, focusing on the intense battle between good and evil, led by Shivani Shivaji Roy.
Who is directing Mardaani 3?
Mardaani 3 is directed by Abhiraj Minawala, with a script by Aayush Gupta and produced by Aditya Chopra.
