The much-awaited third installment of Yash Raj Films’ acclaimed Mardaani franchise is all set to raise the stakes, and the latest update has added more excitement to the mix. Mardaani 3, directed by Abhiraj Minawala and led by Rani Mukerji, will now feature Shaitaan star Janki Bodiwala in a pivotal role. The film is scheduled for a Holi 2026 release.
According to an exclusive Pinkvilla report, Janki Bodiwala has been signed on to play a cop in Mardaani 3, joining Rani Mukerji in the next chapter of India’s first female-led cop thriller franchise.
A source close to the project revealed,
“After winning over the audience with Shaitaan, Janki has bagged a very important role in Mardaani 3. Adi Chopra, and Rani Mukerji were impressed by her performance in Shaitaan, and have cast her to play an important part in Mardaani 3. She will be seen as a cop in the film. She has already started shooting for the film in Mumbai.”
The Mardaani series began in 2014 with Rani Mukerji portraying Shivani Shivaji Roy, a fearless police officer. The first film and its 2019 sequel were both box office successes, and fans have long awaited a third installment. Now, Mardaani 3 is officially in production, promising a hard-hitting narrative and a gripping storyline.
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The source further added,
“The third chapter of Mardaani is the most hard-hitting one, and like always addresses a very relevant social demon. The entire team at YRF is very responsible in taking the Mardaani franchise forward. They want to better the audience experience with every film of this much-loved franchise. The team have ensured that the script is solid, and written keeping the present sensibilities of cinema-going audience in mind.”
Janki Bodiwala made her Bollywood debut with the 2024 hit Shaitaan, after gaining popularity in the Gujarati film industry. Her transition into a major YRF production marks a significant step in her career.
Meanwhile, Yash Raj Films is gearing up for a packed release slate with four major films: Saiyara on July 18, War 2 on August 14, Alpha on December 25, and Mardaani 3 on February 27, 2026. Big-ticket films like Dhoom 4 and Pathaan 2 are also in development.
