Detailed Review
Rani Mukerji’s Mardaani franchise has consistently brought engaging stories based on human trafficking, with her powerful cop avatar at the center. Rani’s performance as the fierce police officer Shivani Shivaji Roy has always been impactful. The trailer of Mardaani 3 had already heightened expectations, and it appeared that the new story would once again expose the ugly realities of society.
Story
The story begins in Bulandshahr, where young girls are being kidnapped. Amma (Mallika Prasad) runs a gang involved in abducting girls. One day, the gang kidnaps the daughter of a senior officer, which changes everything. Shivani Shivaji Roy steps in to investigate the case. As the investigation progresses, it is revealed that the kidnappers are part of a larger human trafficking network. This trafficking ring is operated by Amma and is connected to a beggar mafia.
Review
In recent times, reports of missing girls have frequently made headlines. While some are found, many remain missing forever. Discussions around women’s safety often follow, but the harsh reality is that minor children and young women continue to disappear. In many cases, human trafficking gangs are involved. Mardaani 3 highlights this disturbing side of society. This time, the film exposes the beggar mafia. Therefore, calling Mardaani 3 a necessary film for today’s times would not be wrong.
Mardaani 3 is the sequel to Mardaani (2014). After the success of the first film, Mardaani 2 was also well received. The third installment carries the franchise forward with a new story and introduces Amma as a villain who leaves a lasting impression. From her very first appearance, Amma sends chills down the spine. She is terrifying, ruthless, disgusting, and unhinged—easily one of the most dangerous villains seen on the big screen in recent times.
The story has been written by Ayush Gupta, Deepak Kingrani, and Baljit Singh Marwah, and directed by Abhiraj Minawala. Together, the writers and director present a dark and serious film that exposes the brutal reality of human trafficking. The film features strong action sequences and an intense cat-and-mouse chase.
The first half builds solid momentum, but the second half feels slightly scattered. The film attempts to add too many elements, including angles involving drug trials linked to trafficking. Shivani’s mission starts to feel more international. In the earlier films, Shivani operated within the system, often fighting the system while prioritizing humanity and moral victory over simply solving cases. This time, the scale feels larger, and at times it seems the film compromises its seriousness to portray the lead character as a larger-than-life hero, which can distract viewers in the second half.
Acting
Rani Mukerji first appeared as the fearless police officer in Mardaani (2014). She was powerful in Mardaani 2 and once again brings life to the character in the third installment. Her performance remains the film’s biggest strength. Mallika Prasad delivers a chilling performance as Amma, making the villain truly menacing—even entering Shivani’s personal space. The supporting cast also performs well in their respective roles.
Conclusion
If you enjoy thriller and crime films, Mardaani 3 is worth a watch. While the script could have been sharper, the film carries a strong message. Through Mardaani 3, Rani Mukerji successfully speaks for those whose voices often go unheard.
Movie name: Mardaani 3
Director: Abhiraj Minawala
Cast: Rani Mukerji, Mallika Prasad
Release date: 30 January 2026
Running time: 130 minutes
Mardaani 3
2.5