Mardaani 3, starring Rani Mukerji as fierce police officer Shivani Shivaji Roy, released in theatres on January 30 and has opened to a largely positive response from audiences. The third instalment of Yash Raj Films’ crime thriller franchise continues its focus on hard-hitting social issues, even as it treads familiar narrative territory.
Directed by Abhiraj Minawala, the film once again places Shivani at the centre of a disturbing investigation involving the disappearance of young girls in Delhi. What begins as a routine missing persons case soon exposes a deeply entrenched human trafficking network, led by the chilling antagonist Amma, played by Mallika Prasad.
The Story and Performances
Mardaani 3 keeps its runtime tight and wastes little time establishing the stakes. The first half is brisk and focused, while the second half maintains momentum despite a few predictable turns. The story is written by Aayush Gupta, with dialogues co-written by Baljeet Singh Marwah and Deepak Kingrani.
Rani Mukerji remains the film’s strongest asset. She steps back into the role of Shivani Shivaji Roy with complete authority, delivering a restrained yet powerful performance that anchors the film. Her portrayal avoids theatrics, relying instead on quiet intensity and moral conviction.
Mallika Prasad makes a strong impression as the antagonist, bringing an unsettling calm to her role. Janki Bodiwala delivers a sincere performance, though her character could have benefited from deeper development.
Where the Film Falls Short
While Mardaani 3 is sincere in its intent, it struggles with familiarity. The narrative echoes themes explored recently in other crime dramas, which slightly blunts its impact. Additionally, the confrontations between the protagonist and antagonist do not reach the same level of tension seen in the earlier films of the franchise.
Despite these limitations, the film’s refusal to sensationalise violence and its focus on accountability give it emotional weight and relevance.
What Audiences Are Saying
Soon after the release, audiences took to X (formerly Twitter) to share their reactions. Many praised the film’s intensity, emotional depth, and Rani Mukerji’s commanding screen presence, calling it a “paisa-vasool” cinematic experience.
Several viewers highlighted the gripping second half and the film’s serious treatment of crime and justice. Mallika Prasad’s portrayal of Amma also received widespread appreciation, with fans calling her one of the most disturbing villains in recent Hindi cinema.
However, not all reactions were unanimously positive. Some viewers pointed out logical inconsistencies and felt the film lacked the freshness of earlier instalments. Even so, most agreed that Mukerji’s performance carries the film.
Final Verdict
Mardaani 3 may not reinvent the franchise, but it reinforces why it still matters. Anchored by Rani Mukerji’s authoritative performance, the film continues to address crimes against women and children with seriousness and restraint.
While it occasionally feels familiar, Mardaani 3 succeeds as a reminder that Shivani Shivaji Roy’s fight — and the issues she confronts — are far from over.
