In a recent heartfelt conversation marking her three decades in the film industry, veteran actress Rani Mukerji engaged with filmmaker Karan Johar, opening up about her cinematic journey and the unique space she has carved out in Bollywood. The dialogue, which celebrated her 30-year milestone, delved into various topics, including the much-discussed spy universe and other interconnected film series spearheaded by Aditya Chopra.
Karan Johar Recalls Rani Mukerji's Proud Response to Universe Question
Karan Johar, affectionately known as KJo, reminisced about a particular moment when he questioned Rani Mukerji about her involvement in popular movie franchises. He recounted, "I remember asking you, ‘Rani, he has a spy-verse, he has a Dhoom-verse, when are you in his universe?’ And you turned around and said, ‘Darling, I have my own.'" This bold statement from Rani highlighted her confidence and the distinct path she has chosen in her career.
Rani Mukerji's 'Mardaani' Series: A Female-Led Cop Universe
For those unaware, Rani Mukerji was referring to her acclaimed 'Mardaani' film series, which she leads with strength and silence. Karan Johar praised her vision, stating, "You were absolutely right. 'Mardaani' is your female-led cop-verse. It’s the first… We talk about the Singham-verse, spy-verse and the horror-comedy-verse. But you have been leading a female cop-verse." He emphasized that in an era dominated by testosterone-driven narratives, Rani has been a trailblazer, showcasing powerful female energy through her character Shivani Shivaji Roy.
KJo further elaborated on the significance of the 'Mardaani' franchise, noting, "This is part three, which is releasing… and you’ve led it silently and strongly… never made a big deal about it." He lauded the first installment and highlighted how the upcoming third part continues to address critical social issues with sensitivity and impact.
More About 'Mardaani 3': Plot, Cast, and Release Details
Rani Mukerji is set to reprise her iconic role as Shivani Shivaji Roy in the third installment of the 'Mardaani' series. The film sensitively tackles the pressing issue of girl child trafficking in India, a topic that has resonated deeply with audiences. The trailer has already garnered widespread appreciation and love, building anticipation for its release.
Directed by Abhiraaj Minawala, 'Mardaani 3' features a talented cast including Janki Bodiwala and Mallika Prasad, alongside Rani Mukerji. Backed by producer Aditya Chopra, the film is scheduled to hit theaters on January 30, 2026, promising to deliver another powerful narrative in this female-centric universe.
Celebrating 30 Years of Rani Mukerji in Cinema
This conversation not only shed light on Rani Mukerji's professional achievements but also underscored her role as a pioneer in creating meaningful content. As Bollywood continues to evolve with various cinematic universes, Rani's 'Mardaani' series stands out as a testament to her dedication and the growing importance of female-led stories in the industry.
With her unwavering commitment and the support of filmmakers like Karan Johar, Rani Mukerji's legacy continues to inspire, proving that sometimes, the most impactful universes are the ones built on authenticity and social relevance.
