Mardaani 3 Review: Rani Mukerji Returns Stronger Than Ever
Mardaani 3 showcases Rani Mukerji in top form with a gripping story, strong performances, and a serious take on crimes against children.
Mardaani 3 Review: Rani Mukerji Delivers Another Powerful, Hard-Hitting Film in the Acclaimed Franchise
Released on December 15, 2025, Mardaani 3 once again proves why this franchise holds a special place in Hindi cinema. The previous two films in the series were box-office successes and earned strong critical appreciation, which inspired the makers and lead actress Rani Mukerji to bring the story back for a third time.
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Rani Mukerji has often said that she enjoys working on films that challenge social realities, and Mardaani 3 reflects that commitment clearly. At a time when films running three to three-and-a-half hours are breaking records, this tightly packed film of nearly two hours has received praise from all sides — largely because of its crisp screenplay and a story that keeps the audience hooked from start to finish.
Tone and Theme
One of the biggest strengths of Mardaani 3 is its serious and consistent tone. The director maintains a grim and realistic atmosphere from the very beginning, which is essential given the sensitive subject the film tackles.
The film focuses on crimes against young girls, their safety, and presents a clean, responsible image of the police force — something rarely seen in Hindi films, where police are often portrayed as corrupt or ineffective. This approach gives the film credibility and emotional weight.
Story Plot
The story follows NIA officer Shivani Shivaji Roy (Rani Mukerji), who is assigned a high-profile kidnapping case. The daughter of a senior official and the daughter of a domestic worker go missing under mysterious circumstances.
As Shivani investigates, she uncovers a disturbing pattern — more than 90 girls between the ages of 8 and 13 have disappeared from different areas. The case soon reveals the involvement of a well-organized human trafficking network.
With every new revelation, Shivani expands the scope of her investigation. The story takes unexpected turns and reaches a point no one anticipates. After the interval, the pace becomes razor-sharp, demanding complete attention — even a momentary distraction can cause viewers to miss crucial developments.
Performances
Like the previous installments, Mardaani 3 revolves largely around Rani Mukerji, but this time her role is more layered and emotionally intense. To prepare, Rani reportedly attended a 20-day workshop before shooting.
Her facial expressions are powerful — whether she is portraying investigative pressure, controlled rage, or inner vulnerability. She convincingly captures the fatigue of a police officer, along with the human emotions hidden beneath the uniform. Her screen presence and control over the character are outstanding.
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Mallika Prasad delivers a chilling performance as the antagonist Amma. Her portrayal is impactful, and her scenes opposite Rani add significant tension to the film.
After films like Shaitaan and Vash, Janki Bodiwala appears in an important role as part of Shivani’s team and fits naturally into the narrative. The supporting cast also performs well and adds authenticity to the story.
Direction and Execution
Director Abhiraj Minawala shows strong command over the material. He keeps the story focused and avoids unnecessary distractions. While the first half moves at a slightly slower pace, the film picks up momentum leading into a shocking and well-executed climax.
The controlled direction ensures that the subject matter remains impactful without becoming exploitative.
Overall Verdict
Mardaani 3 is a solid, socially relevant crime thriller that balances storytelling with a strong message. It may not rely on commercial formulas, but it delivers a gripping narrative supported by excellent performances.
Why You Should Watch
If you are a fan of Rani Mukerji and appreciate films that confront harsh realities with honesty and intensity, Mardaani 3 is a must-watch.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Cast: Rani Mukerji, Janki Bodiwala, Mallika Prasad
Producer: Aditya Chopra
Director: Abhiraj Minawala
Certification: UA
Runtime: 126 minutes
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