Rani Mukerji-Led Mardaani 3 In Pre-Production Phase; Auditions For Villain Continue- Report

It has been confirmed that Rani Mukerji’s much-anticipated cop film Mardaani 3 is set to begin production soon, with the makers currently on the lookout for a ‘strong villain.’ This next instalment in the popular franchise was officially announced in 2024, and fans have been eagerly awaiting updates about the film. Reports indicate that shooting for the action thriller will commence in June 2025.

Rani Mukerji Starrer Mardaani 3 In The Pre-Production Phase

According to a recent article in Midday, Mardaani 3 is currently in the pre-production phase. The report states that the filmmakers are conducting look tests for key characters, and director Abhiraj Minawala aims to start filming in June of this year.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Yash Raj Films (@yrf)

Rani Mukerji’s character, Shivani Shivaji Roy, has garnered widespread acclaim in the previous two films. The villains were previously portrayed by Tahir Raj Bhasin and Vishal Jethwa left a lasting impression on audiences. The team is now searching for an actor to embody a similarly compelling antagonist in this third installment. A source told the portal, “Auditions are underway to bring in fresh talent. The focus is on finding a formidable villain.”

Furthermore, the report mentioned that primary shooting locations have been finalized, with filming set to take place in Mumbai and Delhi, along with additional locations in North India to be determined in the upcoming weeks.

First reports On Mardaani 3

In August 2024, it was first reported that Rani Mukerji was preparing for the next chapter in the Mardaani series. A source revealed her enthusiasm for reprising her beloved role as Shivani Shivaji Roy, stating, “She loves playing Shivani Shivaji Roy, as it’s an empowering and strong character. It’s rare for a female lead to spearhead a franchise in India, and Rani is doing that with Mardaani.”

Yash Raj Films hinted at the third instalment in a celebratory video marking the 10th anniversary of Mardaani. They made an official announcement made in December. The caption read, “The wait is over! #RaniMukerji is back as the fierce Shivani Shivaji Roy in #Mardaani3. In cinemas 2026.” It will be directed by Abhiraj Minawala and produced by Aditya Chopra. Mardaani 3 is slated for release in theaters in 2026.

Also Read: Vivek Oberoi reveals initially rejecting Saathiya; recalls Rani Mukerji getting star treatment while he “changed in hotel washrooms”