Rani Mukerji's Mardaani 3 gets Holi 2026 release date; first look out!

Fans of Rani Mukerji are excited about the upcoming third installment of Yash Raj Films' acclaimed female-led action franchise Mardaani. Releasing on Friday, February 27, 2026, intentionally planned around the Holi season, the film Mardaani 3 will have the actor reprising her legendary role as Senior Inspector Shivani Shivaji Roy.

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Rani Mukerji is back as supercop

The news is a watershed event for Indian cinema because, according to Mukerji, Mardaani is the only female cop series in India and the biggest one overall. Raw narrative, strong acting, and an uncompromising depiction of a woman's struggle against structural injustice have made the Mardaani series wildly popular and critically acclaimed over the last decade.

Other female actors who played cops on screen—like Hema Malini in Andhaa Kaanoon, Madhuri Dixit in Khalnayak, and Kritika Kamra in Gyaarah Gyaarah.

Compared to its predecessors, the next film is reportedly a "dark, deadly, and brutal" nail-biter that ups the ante. Mardaani 3 promises to delve to new, terrifying depths, and Rani, who has garnered immense praise for her portrayal of Shivani Shivaji Roy, an intrepid and perceptive police officer tackling horrific crimes, is expected to deliver.

Symbolism of Holi

The symbolic timing of the film's premiere by YRF, a few days before Holi on March 4, 2026, is noteworthy. The central theme of the Mardaani series is echoed in the Holi festival, which represents the victory of good over evil. There have been hints that the film's creators intend to depict a violent showdown between Shivani's unflinching commitment to justice and the wicked forces that pose a threat to society.

There was a frenzy of anticipation on social media after the announcement. Many cinephiles and fans of the series have taken to social media to voice their excitement for what they believe to be the most politically and socially significant film franchise in Hindi cinema. Mardaani (2014) and Mardaani 2 (2019) presented current and provocative narratives about child trafficking and a serial rapist-killer, respectively; Mardaani 3 is anticipated to continue this trend.

Expectations soar

Even though the film's villain and plot are being kept under wraps, the producers assure an engrossing cinematic experience that will do more than just entertain; it will also encourage contemplation and conversation.

Rani Mukerji and YRF's Mardaani 3 promises to be another powerful example of the impact that strong female-led stories can have in Bollywood.