Janki Bodiwala Joins ‘Mardaani 3’: Rising Star to Play Cop Alongside Rani Mukerji
Fresh talent meets established franchise as YRF expands its female-led cop universe
Rising Star Makes Her Mark in Bollywood’s Cop Universe
The much-anticipated third installment of Yash Raj Films’ successful ‘Mardaani’ franchise has found its newest star. Janki Bodiwala, who recently impressed audiences with her performance in the supernatural thriller “Shaitaan,” has reportedly been cast to play a police officer alongside veteran actress Rani Mukerji in “Mardaani 3.”
Industry insiders reveal that Bodiwala’s powerful performance in “Shaitaan” caught the attention of both producer Aditya Chopra and Rani Mukerji, leading to this significant opportunity. The Gujarati actress, who made her Bollywood debut with “Shaitaan,” is now filming in Mumbai, marking a remarkable leap in her career trajectory.
What We Know About ‘Mardaani 3’
“Mardaani 3,” directed by Abhiraj Minawala and produced by Yash Raj Films, continues the story of the fearless police officer Shivani Shivaji Roy, portrayed by Rani Mukerji. Following the success of the previous films released in 2014 and 2019, this third chapter is scheduled to hit theaters on February 27, 2026, coinciding with the Holi festival.
Staying true to the franchise’s reputation, “Mardaani 3” will reportedly tackle another significant social issue, though specific details about the plot remain under wraps. The franchise has earned acclaim for its unflinching portrayal of social problems through the lens of its no-nonsense female protagonist.
From Gujarati Cinema to Bollywood’s Big League
Bodiwala’s journey from Gujarati cinema to a major Bollywood franchise represents a significant milestone in her career. Her role in “Shaitaan,” where she played the daughter of characters portrayed by Ajay Devgn and Jyotika, alongside R. Madhavan, demonstrated her acting prowess and screen presence.
This casting decision reflects YRF’s strategic approach to infusing fresh talent into established franchises, potentially creating new dynamics in the storyline while maintaining the core essence that fans have come to love.
Also Read: Bollywood Stars Unite in Condemning Pahalgam Terror Attack: A Call for Justice and Unity
YRF’s Expanding Slate of Productions
“Mardaani 3” is part of an impressive lineup of upcoming releases from Yash Raj Films. The production house has scheduled several major films including “Saiyara” (July 18, 2025), “War 2” (August 14, 2025), and “Alpha” (December 25, 2025). Additionally, projects like “Dhoom 4” and “Pathaan 2” are in development, indicating the studio’s commitment to building and expanding its cinematic universes.
The addition of “Mardaani 3” to this roster highlights YRF’s continued investment in female-led narratives that balance entertainment with social messaging.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
News of Bodiwala’s casting has generated considerable buzz on social media platforms, with entertainment portals like Pinkvilla, Bollywood Hungama, and Box Office Worldwide confirming her involvement. Fans of the franchise have expressed excitement about the fresh pairing of Mukerji with a rising talent like Bodiwala.
The “Mardaani” series has built a reputation for intense performances and realistic portrayal of police work, setting high expectations for this new collaboration. The chemistry between the established star and the newcomer will be a key aspect that audiences will be looking forward to.
Looking Ahead
As production continues in Mumbai, more details about additional cast members and the specific social issue addressed in the film are expected to emerge. The February 2026 release date gives the team ample time to craft another compelling entry in this critically acclaimed franchise.
For Janki Bodiwala, this role represents not just a career milestone but potentially a transformative opportunity to establish herself as a versatile performer in Hindi cinema. For fans of the “Mardaani” series, the addition of fresh talent promises an exciting new chapter in the story of Shivani Shivaji Roy.
Catch us for latest Bollywood News, Movies Reviews, New Movie Release , and Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook
