Rani Mukerji to return as Shivani Roy in Mardaani 3 on February 27, 2026; first look revealed

Rani Mukerji looks powerful in Mardaani 3 first look

With the highly anticipated third installment of her critically acclaimed action-thriller franchise, Mardaani 3, Rani Mukerji is preparing for a fierce comeback to the big screen.

Resuming her role as the tough, no-nonsense police officer Shivani Shivaji Roy, Mukerji is poised to take the lead in what looks to be another intense, action-packed fight for justice.

The franchise's production company, Yash Raj Films, gave fans an exciting preview of the film by sharing a striking first look poster on social media. The creators of the poster also revealed the planned release date, which is Friday, February 27, 2026, right before the Holi festival.

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The official post was captioned, "The countdown begins for #Mardaani3! On Holi, good will fight evil as Shivani Shivaji Roy returns to the big screen on February 27, 2026. #RaniMukerji @abhiraj88"

The film's plot, which Mukerji describes as "dark, deadly, and brutal," is ideally matched with this thematic parallel.

Abhiraj Minawala, who is well-known for his work on important YRF productions like Sultan, Tiger 3, and Band Baaja Baaraat, is directing the movie. He most recently served as associate director on the impending War 2. Aayush Gupta, who received recognition for his work on the critically acclaimed Netflix series The Railway Men, wrote the screenplay.

As the most popular action series with a single female lead, the Mardaani franchise has a special place in Hindi cinema. Because of its unvarnished storytelling and Mukerji's intense performance, it has received both critical acclaim and a loyal following over the last ten years. Although plot specifics are kept under wraps, the teaser suggests a fierce, gory battle between Shivani Shivaji Roy and a powerful new foe.

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Rani Mukerji was last seen in the moving drama Mrs. Chatterjee vs. Norway (2023), which was praised for its emotional depth and potent storytelling. She is prepared to take over the screen with courage, strength, and grit in Mardaani 3.