Rani Mukerji's first look from 'Mardaani 3' finally out; Check release date

Get ready for a return of the fearless Shivani Shivaji Roy! Yash Raj Films (YRF) has officially announced that Mardaani 3, starring the powerhouse Rani Mukerji, will hit theaters on February 27, 2026.

The news was accompanied by a captivating first look, showcasing Rani in all her fierce glory. Dressed in a black shirt, blue jeans, and boots, she confidently points a gun, her steely gaze sending chills down our spines. The poster perfectly encapsulates the intensity and power we've come to expect from the Mardaani franchise.

The countdown begins for #Mardaani3! On Holi, good will fight evil as Shivani Shivaji Roy returns to the big screen on February 27, 2026

- Rani Mukerji

The first look of Rani Mukerji as Shivani Shivaji Roy in Mardaani 3 sent fans into a frenzy. Comments poured in, expressing excitement and anticipation. One user declared, "Shivani is finally back," while another praised the look, calling it "amazing." The overwhelming sentiment was clear: "Can't wait for this." One of the user wrote,"Rani at her best in this film,” another one wrote,"This is really amazing."

Mardaani 3 marks the directorial debut of Abhiraj Minawala, known for his contributions to YRF blockbusters like Band Baaja Baaraat, Sultan, and Tiger 3. He brings a wealth of experience to the project, having served as an associate director on War 2.

The screenplay is penned by Aayush Gupta, who recently made his mark in the streaming world with Netflix's The Railway Men. With such a talented team behind the scenes, Mardaani 3 is sure to deliver a compelling and impactful story.

The Mardaani franchise has solidified its place as a powerhouse in Hindi cinema, establishing itself as the most successful solo female-led franchise in the country. Over a decade, the series has garnered both commercial success and critical acclaim, earning cult status among Indian cinema fans.

Production on Mardaani 3 is well underway, with filming commencing on March 26th, 2025, at the Golden Tobacco factory in Vile Parle. The team spent a week at the location, capturing several key sequences featuring Rani Mukerji. The shoot has now moved to Yash Raj Studios in Andheri, where crucial fight scenes are being filmed. Director Abhiraj Minawala has meticulously planned these action sequences, emphasizing their importance to the film's narrative.

Mardaani 3 is set to release on February 27, 2026, coinciding with the auspicious Holi festival. Holi, a celebration of good triumphing over evil, serves as a fitting backdrop for the film's themes of Shivani's unwavering fight against sinister forces. The makers are promising a bloody, violent clash, showcasing the intense battle between Shivani's goodness and the darkness she confronts.

The plot of Mardaani 3 is shrouded in secrecy, but the release date around Holi suggests a thrilling narrative. Yash Raj Films describes the film as a "bloody, violent clash" between Rani Mukerji's character and the antagonists, promising a high-stakes showdown.

Mukerji's last cinematic outing was in the critically acclaimed and commercially successful Mrs. Chatterjee vs. Norway, a powerful film that showcased her versatility as an actress.

In 2024, Rani shared her excitement about the expansion of the film. “I’m truly proud of my 'Mardaani' franchise. It is a franchise that keeps on giving. The love, adulation, and respect that I have received from Mardaani is truly humbling. I’m looking forward to bringing back Shivani Shivaji Roy on the big screen soon. It’s been a while since I have donned the cop uniform and played tribute to the women police force of our country.”

She said, "I’m excited to see how 'Mardaani 3' shapes up as! I am crossing my fingers because I would love to play the part of Shivani."