Rani Mukerji’s latest outing as the formidable Shivani Shivaji Roy continues to draw attention, with filmmaker Karan Johar joining the chorus of praise for Mardaani 3. Released in theatres on January 30, 2026, the crime thriller has been widely appreciated by audiences and critics for its intensity, grounded storytelling, and Mukerji’s authoritative screen presence.
Sharing his thoughts on Instagram on February 10, Johar lauded the actor’s enduring impact and craft. He celebrated her ability to command the screen and reinvent herself while remaining commercially relevant — an achievement he described as no small feat. Congratulating her on the continued success of the solo-led franchise, he characterised the film as one that stands firmly on its own strengths and narrative conviction.
Directed by Abhiraj Minawala and backed by Yash Raj Films, Mardaani 3 sees Mukerji reprise her role as the fearless police officer confronting a sprawling child-trafficking network. The plot centres on the disappearance of 93 underprivileged girls, a case that escalates when the daughter of an Indian diplomat is abducted. As Shivani digs deeper, she uncovers an organised criminal web run by the ruthless antagonist Amma, forcing her to navigate systemic failures and moral grey zones in pursuit of justice.
Beyond its procedural tension, the film foreground’s themes of social inequality and institutional neglect, highlighting how crimes against marginalised communities often go overlooked. The narrative continues the franchise’s focus on resilience, positioning Shivani as an incorruptible figure willing to challenge entrenched power structures through unconventional means.
Currently screening in cinemas, the film is set to arrive on Netflix on March 27, 2026, following its theatrical run. Earlier instalments of the franchise are also available on the platform, allowing viewers to revisit the evolution of one of Hindi cinema’s most enduring female-led action series.
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