Bollywood actress Nayanthara has lauded the trailer of Rani Mukerji's upcoming film, Mardaani 3, calling it "absolute fire". The highly anticipated third installment in the Mardaani franchise sees Mukerji reprising her role as Shivani Shivaji Roy, a fearless cop battling a sinister child trafficking racket.
The trailer for Mardaani 3, which was released on January 12, 2026, has garnered immense praise from audiences and critics alike. Nayanthara's appreciation adds to the widespread positive reception, signaling strong anticipation for the film.
In Mardaani 3, ACP Shivani Shivaji Roy joins the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and is tasked with investigating a case of missing children. The investigation reveals a disturbing human trafficking operation led by a woman named Amma, played by Mallika Prasad. The film delves into the dark realities of child trafficking, a theme consistent with the previous Mardaani films. The first film addressed human trafficking, while the second focused on a serial rapist.
Directed by Abhiraj Minawala and produced by Aditya Chopra, Mardaani 3 features a screenplay by Aayush Gupta, Deepak Kingrani, and Baljeet Singh Marwah. The film also stars Janki Bodiwala in a pivotal role.
Many internet users have drawn parallels between the film's plot and Netflix's Delhi Crime Season 3, which also revolves around a human trafficking ring. Some viewers commented that Mardaani 3 appears to be a cinematic adaptation of a similar storyline.
Rani Mukerji, who has completed 30 years in Bollywood, has expressed gratitude for the overwhelming response to the Mardaani 3 trailer. She dedicated the film to the Indian police force, especially the women officers. Mukerji stated that the positive response indicates that the country has a strong conscience and feels anger when something is wrong and pride when someone protects the helpless.
Mardaani 3 is scheduled to be released on January 30, 2026, having been moved forward from its original February 27, 2026 release date. The film is produced under the Yash Raj Films banner.
