‘Mardaani 3’ a Defining Chapter in My 30-Year Journey, Says Rani Mukerji
Digital Desk
Actor Rani Mukerji has described Mardaani 3 as one of the most significant milestones of her three-decade-long career, saying the film goes beyond entertainment to deliver a message of safety, dignity, and respect for women. Speaking in a recent interview, Mukerji said the franchise reflects her belief that cinema can be a powerful agent of social change.
Mukerji, who reprises her role as senior police officer Shivani Shivaji Roy, said the film underscores the need to treat every woman with respect. “Every woman deserves to be treated like a queen—whether she is a mother, daughter, sister, or wife,” she said, adding that the film aims to encourage vigilance and awareness against crimes targeting women and children.
The actor said there was no deliberate plan to align Mardaani 3 with her 30th year in the industry. The timing, she noted, felt like destiny. She described the film as a natural progression in a journey defined by meaningful roles and social responsibility, calling it a project with a strong and timely message.
Addressing the pressure of leading a successful franchise named after her character, Mukerji said each film brings a sense of responsibility. She noted that portraying Shivani Shivaji Roy carries special weight because the character represents real-life women police officers. “The film reflects their daily struggles and courage as they work to protect society,” she said, adding that she sees the role as a tribute to women in uniform across the country.
Mukerji also spoke about the central conflict in Mardaani 3, where her character confronts a female antagonist. She stressed that the narrative does not associate evil with gender. “Evil has no gender. It can exist in anyone. The film shows how goodness confronts it,” she said.
Reflecting on interactions with women police officers, Mukerji said their ability to balance professional duty and family life continues to inspire her. She recalled conversations with officers who manage household responsibilities alongside demanding work schedules, calling them the true embodiment of strength and resilience.
The actor performed many of her own stunts in the film, acknowledging the physical and emotional challenges involved. She said the effort was driven by a desire to portray women officers with authenticity and respect. Mukerji added that feedback from audiences, particularly women who feel empowered after watching the film, has been deeply rewarding.
While Mardaani 3 has found strong resonance with female viewers, Mukerji noted that the response from male audiences has also been encouraging. She said many young men have described the film as essential viewing, reinforcing its broader social message.
Mukerji said her immediate focus remains on the film’s theatrical run, emphasising that the future of the franchise depends on sustained audience support.
