The much-anticipated wait for the next chapter in the popular crime thriller franchise is finally over. Yash Raj Films unveiled the official trailer for Mardaani 3 on 12 January, sending fans into a frenzy. The clip confirms the powerful return of Rani Mukerji as the relentless ACP Shivani Shivaji Roy, who is now facing her most harrowing case yet.
A Sinister New Adversary and a Chilling Case
The trailer sets a grim and urgent tone from the very first frame. It reveals a city gripped by panic as 93 young girls, aged between eight and 11, have mysteriously vanished within a short span of just three months. The sheer scale of the disappearances points to a large, organized criminal operation. This time, Shivani Roy's pursuit leads her to a terrifying new antagonist: Amma, a cold and calculating figure who commands a vast beggar mafia network.
Played by actress Mallika Prasad, Amma emerges as a formidable foe with a chillingly precise modus operandi. The trailer hints that the missing children are trapped in this orchestrated crime ring, turning Shivani's investigation into a desperate race against time where every passing hour is critical.
Darker Tone and High-Octane Action
Staying true to the franchise's core, the trailer showcases Shivani Roy's trademark no-nonsense approach to justice. Audiences get glimpses of hard-hitting interrogation scenes and high-intensity chase sequences that promise edge-of-the-seat suspense. Rani Mukerji anchors the narrative with a performance brimming with controlled rage and quiet determination, reminding viewers why her character is so iconic.
Visually, the film takes a grittier and darker turn compared to its predecessors, effectively underlining the heavy moral and emotional weight of the investigation. Directed by Abhiraj Minawala and produced by Aditya Chopra, Mardaani 3 continues YRF's focus on crafting socially relevant thrillers powered by strong female leads.
Audience Reactions and Release Date
The trailer has ignited strong reactions across social media platforms. While a vast section of fans have praised its raw intensity and Rani Mukerji's commanding screen presence, some viewers noted thematic similarities with other crime series. However, many have welcomed the return to this unsettling territory, hailing Shivani Roy as one of Hindi cinema's most compelling female protagonists.
In earlier statements, Rani Mukerji described Mardaani 3 as "dark, deadly and brutal," emphasizing the team's responsibility to elevate the benchmark for a franchise that deeply resonates with the audience. Originally planned for a February release, the film's date was advanced. Mardaani 3 is now scheduled to hit theatres nationwide on 30 January 2026, poised to deliver both thrilling suspense and powerful social commentary.
