Mardaani 3 REVIEW: ‘Shivani Shivaji Roy’ Rani Mukerji Roars Loud In A Hard-Hitting Fight For Girls’ Justice

Film:
Mardaani 3

Director: Abhiraj Minawala

Writers: Aayush Gupta, Deepak Kingrani, Baljeet Singh Marwah

Cast: Rani Mukerji, Prajesh Kashyap, Janki Bodiwala and Mallika Prasad

Platform: Theatres

Runtime: 2 hours 10 minutes 

Mardaani 3 Review

Mardaani 3, the third instalment of Hindi cinema’s biggest solo female-led franchise returns after a decade-long journey that has consistently blended social urgency with mainstream storytelling. Rani Mukerji once again steps into the boots of the fearless cop Shivani Shivaji Roy in a dark, disturbing and brutal narrative that places crimes against young girls at its emotional core.

The film opens with Shivani investigating a chilling case linked to a beggar mafia run by Amma (played by Mallika Prasad), a ruthless woman involved in child trafficking. While the operation initially appears familiar, the plot soon takes a disturbing turn as Shivani uncovers the abduction of girls aged 8–10 for a far more sinister motive. Racing against time, she must decode Amma’s plan and rescue nearly 60 missing girls before it’s too late. There are many twist in the tale when it come to characters of Prajesh Kashyap and Janki Bodiwala.

Much like the earlier films, Mardaani 3 starts as a focused investigation before expanding into a wider conspiracy. The narrative exposes an underground network exploiting pre-pubescent girls, using them as expendable tools for inhuman experimentation. The subject matter is deeply unsettling and handled with intent, even when the storytelling becomes predictable.

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What Works

Rani Mukerji’s commanding presence anchors the film from start to finish. She brings conviction, restraint and quiet rage to Shivani Shivaji Roy. The core subject is disturbing and socially relevant, making the film emotionally impactful despite familiar beats. The film maintains a serious, no-frills tone, avoiding unnecessary glamorisation of violence. While, some interrogation and confrontation scenes pack a solid punch and stay with you.

What Doesn’t Work

The plot follows a predictable trajectory, especially for those familiar with the franchise. The antagonist’s arc, though menacing, lacks depth, limiting the psychological tension. The certain emotional beats feel rushed, reducing their impact especially in the second half of the film. The screenplay could have benefited from tighter pacing, especially in the second half.

Technical Analysis

The film opts for a gritty visual palette, with dimly lit frames enhancing the grim atmosphere. The background score is effective but occasionally overused. The editing remains functional, though a sharper cut could have elevated the suspense. The action sequences are raw rather than stylised, staying true to the franchise’s grounded approach.

Star Performances

Rani Mukerji as SSP Shivani Shivaji Roy is the soul of Mardaani 3. She brings authority, vulnerability and moral fire to a role that has now become synonymous with her screen legacy.

Prajesh Kashyap as Ramanujan delivers a controlled performance, adding weight to the investigation-driven narrative.

Mallika Prasad as Amma menacing in parts, but the character deserved more layers to fully land as a formidable antagonist.

Janki Bodiwala as Fatima brings emotional sincerity, especially in scenes requiring restraint. This is one of her best performance post Vash 2. 

The supporting performances by Jisshu Sengupta, Mikhail Yawalkar, Indraneel Bhattacharya, Jaipreet Singh, Jimpa Sangpo Bhutia, Sachin Negi, and Adesh Pandit add texture, even if some characters remain underwritten.

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Conclusion

Mardaani 3 may not break new ground narratively, but it remains effective, relevant and emotionally stirring, largely due to Rani Mukerji’s powerful performance. The film plays it safe within the franchise template, yet its intent and urgency ensure it leaves an impact. It’s predictable, yes, but still an important and hard-hitting watch.

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Manisha Karki

Manisha has established a reputation for insightful and engaging storytelling with over six years of expertise in the industry. With a deep passion for cinema, she brings a unique perspective to her coverage, making it a trusted voice in the entertainment world.