Rani Mukerji on her 30-year journey and Mardaani 3: 'Trusted my instincts even when they went against trends'
Rani Mukerji marks 30 years in film with Mardaani 3. She credits her success to staying honest, choosing flawed characters, and saluting female resilience through her iconic cop franchise.
Last Updated: 12.16 PM, Jan 12, 2026
On January 30, 2026, Mardaani 3 will be released to commemorate Rani Mukerji's 30th year in the movies. This upcoming film will be the newest chapter of the female-led theatrical film franchise in India.
How does Rani Mukerji reflect on her journey in Hindi cinema?
To celebrate, Mukerji wrote a heartfelt essay that traced her career in Hindi cinema from her breakout role in 1996's Raja Ki Aayegi Baaraat to her present position as an industry veteran.
The actor spoke about how her fascination with the human mind, rather than a "grand plan" or ambition, led to her 30-year career in the industry. She stressed that, rather than following trends, her sincerity is the key to her longevity.
Why does Rani Mukerji prioritise honesty over staying relevant?
"If these 30 years have taught me anything, it is that longevity is not about staying relevant – it is about staying honest. I have taken breaks, returned on my own terms, and trusted my instincts even when they went against trends," said Mukerji.
Saathiya and Hum Tum were two of the actor's watershed moments; in both films, she departed from "perfection" and portrayed women who were fragile, impetuous, and flawed. Black marked a pivotal moment in her acting career, demonstrating to her the power of silence over words. The roles she played in Hichki and Mrs. Chatterjee vs. Norway—the latter of which garnered her a National Award—delved into themes of parenting and representation.
How did motherhood influence Rani Mukerji her performance in Mrs. Chatterjee vs. Norway?
"The universe reserved the feeling of me winning this award for when I became a mother and understood what a woman can do for her offspring," Mukerji said, adding that her performance in Mrs. Chatterjee vs. Norway was enhanced by her real-life motherhood.
Her character Shivani Shivaji Roy embodies "quiet strength" instead of "loud heroism" in the Mardaani films. Symbolically, the actor is celebrating her 30-year anniversary with the release of the third installment in the series.
Why is the release of Mardaani 3 meaningful to her?
"To have a threequel from the franchise that I have built release in my 30th year is again a sign for me. It is incredibly special to mark my 30th year in cinema with Mardaani 3—a franchise that allows me to salute the spirit of today’s women and also the resilience of the Indian police force," said the actor.
Mukerji, who is still considering herself a "newcomer" with outstanding potential, has stated her intention to keep pushing herself to her creative limits in the film industry. At the end of her statement, she thanked her fans and colleagues for supporting her throughout her career, saying that making films is a team effort and that she has never been alone.
Rani Mukerji FAQs:
Q: When is Mardaani 3 releasing?
A: Mardaani 3 is scheduled for a theatrical release on January 30, 2026. Originally slated for late February, production house Yash Raj Films (YRF) moved the date forward to coincide with the beginning of Rani Mukerji's 30th year in the Indian film industry.
Q: How many years has Rani Mukerji been in the film industry?
A: As of 2026, Rani Mukerji is celebrating 30 years in cinema. She made her acting debut in 1996 with the Bengali film Biyer Phool and the Hindi social drama Raja Ki Aayegi Baaraat.
Q: Is Mardaani the only female-led franchise in India?
A: Yes, Mardaani holds the distinction of being India’s only successful female-led theatrical movie franchise. It is also the country's first and only female-led cop franchise.