Rani Mukerji Returns as Shivani Roy: Mardaani 3 Set to Explode on Holi 2026

Rani Mukerji is not done fighting just yet. The actress, once the heart of romantic blockbusters like Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and Mujhse Dosti Karoge, has firmly carved her space in intense, content-driven cinema. From Hichki to Mardaani to the emotionally charged Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway, her filmography post-marriage reflects a deeper, bolder voice. And now, she’s set to bring that fire back in Mardaani 3, produced by her husband Aditya Chopra under Yash Raj Films.

The much-loved franchise, which began in 2014, returns with its third chapter, promising an explosive face-off between justice and evil. YRF unveiled the release date February 27, 2026, strategically timed ahead of Holi, a festival that celebrates the triumph of good over evil. With this symbolism, the studio has also dropped the intense first look, featuring Rani back in uniform as the fierce Shivani Shivaji Roy.

Mardaani has been India’s only female-led cop franchise and continues to hold its ground as the most powerful one yet. Over the past decade, the series has earned a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim for spotlighting real-world crimes with grit and heart. In Mardaani 3, Rani is expected to take on an even more dangerous adversary in what she describes as a “dark, deadly and brutal” storyline.

There’s no teaser yet, but just the announcement has sparked a wave of excitement. Whether it’s the Holi timing, the return of Shivani Roy, or Rani’s raw intensity, Mardaani 3 looks ready to shake up 2026. And this time, it’s not just about a comeback it’s a war cry.