Rani Mukerji's much-anticipated action drama 'Mardaani 3' has finally made its theatrical debut today, January 30, 2026. The film, which delves into the hard-hitting and sensitive subject of girl child trafficking, has generated significant buzz but has opened to mixed reactions from audiences across the country.
Rani Mukerji Returns as Iconic Cop Shivani Shivaji Roy
Rani Mukerji is back in her powerful and iconic role as police officer Shivani Shivaji Roy, a character she has portrayed since the first installment of the franchise. The actress's return to this intense avatar after a considerable gap has been a major talking point among fans and critics alike.
Cast Fees Revealed: Rani Tops the List
Amid the excitement surrounding the film's release, reports about the cast fees have surfaced online. According to multiple sources, Rani Mukerji is the highest-paid actor in the project, having reportedly received Rs 7 crore for her role. The main antagonist, played by Mallika Prasad, is said to have been paid Rs 50 lakhs. However, details about the fees for supporting actors remain undisclosed at this time.
Box Office Performance and Clash with 'Border 2'
The film faced a box office clash with Sunny Deol's 'Border 2', which was released on January 23, 2026. Despite this competition, 'Mardaani 3' has managed to earn approximately Rs 2.38 crore on its opening day, as per the latest Sacnilk report. The numbers are expected to rise throughout the day, with final figures anticipated later in the night.
In terms of audience turnout, the movie recorded an overall Hindi occupancy of 13.63% on Friday, January 30, 2026. This indicates a moderate opening, with potential for growth over the weekend.
More About the 'Mardaani' Franchise
The 'Mardaani' series has been a significant part of Rani Mukerji's career, with the first film releasing in 2014 and featuring Tahir Raj Bhasin as the antagonist. The sequel, which came out in 2019, saw Vishal Jethwa in the villain's role. The franchise is known for its gritty storytelling and strong social messages.
Director and Supporting Cast
'Mardaani 3' is directed by Abhiraj Minawala and features Mallika Prasad in the role of Amma. The film also includes Janki Bodiwala in a pivotal role, adding depth to the narrative. The director's approach to handling the sensitive theme of girl child trafficking has been a point of discussion among viewers.
As the film continues its theatrical run, all eyes will be on its performance at the box office and the evolving audience reception. The mixed reviews suggest that while some appreciate the film's bold subject matter, others may have expected more from this latest installment in the popular franchise.
