Rani Mukerji is back in the lead role as Shivani Shivaji Roy in Mardaani 3, and fans had high expectations. The film was released on January 30, 2026, and early responses show a mixed bag—some praising Rani’s performance, others hoping for a tighter storyline.
From the very first scene, Rani dominates the screen. Her portrayal of a determined, no-nonsense cop remains the highlight of the film. Action sequences are intense, and the social issues addressed in the story still hit home. Fans of the franchise will feel a sense of familiarity, which is both comforting and slightly predictable.
Critics note that the film delivers on action and grit, but the screenplay struggles in parts, especially in the second half. Some twists feel rushed, and a few emotional beats could have been explored more deeply. On social media, viewers are divided—while many applaud Rani’s commanding presence, others feel the plot could have been more innovative.
The antagonist has been a talking point. While some appreciate the larger-than-life villainy, a few critics argue the character lacks nuance. Overall, Mardaani 3 is a performance-driven film rather than a story-driven one.
Box Office Snapshot
Opening day collections were modest. Advance bookings suggested good interest, but competition from Border 2 affected early earnings. Estimates place first-day collections between ₹2 crore and ₹4 crore, depending on the source. Trade analysts say evening and weekend shows may improve the numbers if word-of-mouth picks up.
Compared to Mardaani 2, which had a stronger opening, this installment faces a more challenging theatrical landscape. The makers followed a controlled release strategy with fewer shows per theater and reasonable ticket prices to encourage steady occupancy.
Early Verdict
Mardaani 3 may not be a blockbuster start, but Rani Mukerji’s stellar performance keeps it engaging. The film’s social relevance and action sequences appeal to its core audience. If the word-of-mouth is positive over the weekend, collections could see an uptick.
Final Take
For fans of the franchise, Mardaani 3 delivers what they expect—action, a strong female lead, and a story about justice. It’s not perfect, but Rani’s performance makes it worth a watch. The coming days will show if the film manages to sustain momentum at the box office