Rani Mukerji is back as ACP Shivani Shivaji Roy in "Mardaani 3," but the recently released trailer has sparked comparisons to Netflix's "Delhi Crime Season 3". The third installment of the "Mardaani" franchise features Mukerji as a fearless cop investigating a human trafficking racket involving the disappearance of 93 young girls over three months.

In "Mardaani 3," Shivani is appointed by the NIA to find the missing girls and soon discovers a dangerous trafficking ring led by a woman named Amma, played by Mallika Prasad. The trailer showcases Shivani's determination to save the girls.

However, after the trailer's release, viewers quickly drew parallels between "Mardaani 3" and "Delhi Crime Season 3", a series starring Shefali Shah as a police officer investigating a similar case. Some viewers felt that the tone, investigation style, and portrayal of institutional policing felt similar. Online comments included remarks like "We have already seen Delhi Crime Season 3" and "This is Delhi Crime Season 3 in 70 mm". Some comments express that it is the “same old story”.

Despite the comparisons, "Mardaani 3" aims to delve deeper into the criminal underworld beyond child trafficking. The "Mardaani" franchise has a history of tackling relevant social issues, with the first film focusing on human trafficking and the second exploring the mind of a serial rapist.

"Mardaani 3" is directed by Abhiraj Minawala and produced by Aditya Chopra. The film also stars Janki Bodiwala. The script is written by Aayush Gupta, known for "The Railway Men". Originally scheduled for release on February 27, 2026, the film's release date has been moved to January 30, 2026. The film's release coincides with Rani Mukerji's 30th year in the film industry.