After the success of ‘Mardaani 3’, the makers signal openness to a fourth chapter—if the script lives up to the legacy.
Our Bureau
Mumbai
Director Abhiraj Minawala has opened up about his journey with Mardaani 3 and the possibility of taking the acclaimed franchise forward with a fourth instalment, making it clear that the future of Shivani Shivaji Roy depends entirely on the strength of the story.
Following the success of Mardaani 3, Minawala said the team is open to continuing the journey of the fearless cop portrayed by Rani Mukerji. However, he emphasised that the franchise will only move ahead when a script worthy of its legacy is in place.
Speaking to reporters, Minawala said, “‘Mardaani 4’, I think, should be made. More films should be made. ‘Mardaani’ 1 and 2 empowered us to make ‘Mardaani 3’. But of course, if you see ‘Mardaani 2,’ which came out in 2019 and is now in 2026. The important thing in this is that I think ‘Mardaani 4’ should be made only when we have the right script, the right story.”
That careful approach reflects the franchise’s identity. Since its inception, Mardaani has carved a distinct space in Hindi cinema by tackling hard-hitting, socially relevant issues through the lens of a strong female protagonist. Directed by Abhiraj Minawala and produced by Aditya Chopra, Mardaani 3 continues that legacy, with Rani Mukerji reprising her role as the bold and relentless Shivani Shivaji Roy.
The first film spotlighted the grim underworld of human trafficking, while Mardaani 2 explored the chilling psyche of a brutal serial offender. The third instalment dives into another dark and urgent social issue, reinforcing the series’ reputation for impactful, issue-driven storytelling. Each chapter has expanded the moral and emotional universe of Shivani, positioning her not just as a cop, but as a symbol of justice confronting systemic rot.
Minawala’s own journey with Yash Raj Films (YRF) mirrors the franchise’s evolution. He shared that his association with the production house began years ago as an assistant director. “I have been associated with YRF for many years. My journey actually started with ‘Rocket Singh’. I worked as an assistant director for a long time, constantly moving from film to film,” he said.
Over time, he became deeply involved in designing action sequences and contributing to creative discussions across projects. It was during this phase that producer Aditya Chopra encouraged him to read the script of Mardaani 3.
“Once I read it, I liked it a lot. I knew I had to make it 100 per cent. The story connected with me at a very different level. It touched me not just as a director, but as a father,” Minawala said, hinting at the emotional core that drives the film beyond its thriller elements.
Calling Mardaani a respected and established franchise, Minawala credited the earlier films for laying a strong foundation. He acknowledged the work of filmmaker Pradeep Sarkar, who directed the first instalment, and Gopi Puthran, who helmed the second part.
“The toughest work was done when the world of Mardaani was set up in the first film. My job was to ensure every character, even those appearing briefly, was given equal importance so the story moves forward organically,” he said.
The film’s reception appears to have validated that effort. Minawala described the audience response as overwhelming.
“No one can decide the success of a film. Content and audience are the kings. I have received many direct messages from viewers thanking me for making such a film. That was unexpected and very motivating,” he added.
The franchise’s strength also lies in Rani Mukerji’s commanding portrayal of Shivani. Actor Vishal Jethwa, who played a pivotal role in Mardaani 2, recently reunited with Rani at a special screening of Mardaani 3 and did not hold back in his praise.
“‘Mardaani’ will always be very special to me, and so will Rani ma’am. Working with her has been one of the most important learning experiences of my life. She leads by example with honesty, strength, and so much grace. Reuniting with her at the screening brought back so many memories, and I couldn’t be more grateful to have been a part of this journey,” he said.
He added, “‘Mardaani’ is Rani Mukerji ma’am, and Rani Mukerji ma’am is Mardaani. No one can perform Shivani Shivaji Roy better then Rani ma’am. Saw Mardaani 3 and she again proved that she is Rani Mukerji for a reason I want to come back as villain in Mardaani 4.”
