The Indian film industry is currently witnessing a historic milestone as one of its most versatile powerhouses, Rani Mukerji, marks thirty years in the world of cinema. To make this occasion even more special, Yash Raj Films has officially released the high octane trailer for Mardaani 3. This third installment in the acclaimed cop franchise arrives as a tribute to Rani’s incredible longevity and her commitment to stories that demand social change. The trailer launch has sent waves of excitement through the fanbase, proving that even after three decades, the queen of Bollywood remains as impactful as ever.

Three Decades of Cinematic Excellence

Rani Mukerji began her journey in 1996 with the Bengali film Biyer Phool and later made her Hindi debut with Raja Ki Aayegi Baaraat. Since then, she has navigated the industry with a rare blend of grace and grit. From the bubbly girl next door in the late nineties to the fierce, no nonsense police officer we see today, her evolution is a masterclass in acting. To celebrate this thirty year anniversary, Rani shared a heartfelt note via Yash Raj Films, expressing that she still feels like a newcomer who is hungry for more cinematic challenges. Her career has been defined by iconic roles in films like Black, Saathiya, and Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway, but it is the character of Shivani Shivaji Roy that has arguably become her most defining modern legacy.

Shivani Shivaji Roy Returns in a Darker Tale

The Mardaani 3 trailer introduces us to a version of Shivani Shivaji Roy that is more determined and fearless than ever before. This time, the narrative shifts toward a chilling case of missing girls, involving a sinister human trafficking network that spans across borders. The trailer suggests a dark, deadly, and brutal atmosphere, staying true to the gritty tone established by the previous films. Unlike typical masala cop movies, Mardaani 3 appears to lean heavily into the procedural and psychological aspects of crime fighting. The intensity in Rani’s eyes during the interrogation scenes shows that she has lost none of the fire that made the first two parts such massive hits.

A Battle of Wits Against a New Antagonist

One of the most talked about elements of the Mardaani 3 trailer is the introduction of a new formidable villain. The franchise has a history of creating terrifying antagonists, and this installment is no different. Shivani Shivaji Roy finds herself locked in a high stakes game of cat and mouse with a ruthless mafia queen, played by Mallika Prasad. The trailer highlights a sharp contrast between Shivani’s unwavering moral compass and the cold, calculated evil of her opponent. This female led confrontation adds a fresh layer of tension to the series, making it one of the most anticipated theatrical releases of early 2026.

Director Abhiraj Minawala and the January Release

Under the direction of Abhiraj Minawala and the production of Aditya Chopra, Mardaani 3 is set to hit theaters sooner than expected. Originally slated for a February release, the film has been preponed to January 30, 2026. This strategic move ensures that Rani’s thirty year celebration remains at the forefront of the news cycle. The production quality showcased in the trailer is top notch, featuring realistic action sequences and a haunting background score that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. With a script by Aayush Gupta, the film aims to be more than just an action thriller; it seeks to be a hard hitting commentary on the safety of women in modern society.

The Legacy of Indias Only Female Cop Franchise

Mardaani stands unique as the only successful female led theatrical franchise in Indian cinema history. By reaching its third chapter, it has broken many industry stereotypes regarding the longevity of female centric action films. For Rani Mukerji, Mardaani 3 is not just another project but a milestone that perfectly encapsulates her three decade long career. It represents her shift toward roles that offer “quiet strength” rather than loud heroism. As the film approaches its January release, fans are eager to see how Shivani Shivaji Roy will navigate this latest, and perhaps most dangerous, assignment.