Rani Mukerji fans have a reason to rejoice as Yash Raj Films (YRF) confirmed that `Mardaani 3` has successfully completed its censor process, receiving a U/A 16+ certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) on January 14. Adding to the excitement, the film's release has been preponed by almost a month, now set to hit screens on January 30, promising an earlier dose of thrilling action.
Censor Board Gives Green Light with U/A 16+
The `Mardaani 3` team successfully navigated the censor board, securing a U/A 16+ certificate. This rating is particularly significant as there were prior apprehensions within the industry about the film potentially receiving an ‘A’ certificate due to its disturbing content, hinted at in the trailer. The U/A 16+ rating is expected to significantly broaden the film's appeal, especially among the youth, allowing a wider audience to experience the intense narrative.
Mardaani 3 Sets a New Runtime Record
Not only has `Mardaani 3` secured a favorable rating, but it also marks a new milestone for the franchise by becoming the longest film in the series. With an approved run time of 2 hours, 10 minutes, and 36 seconds, it's the first `Mardaani` installment to exceed the two-hour mark.
Here’s a breakdown of the franchise runtimes:
• Mardaani (2014): 1 hour, 53 minutes (113 minutes)
• Mardaani 2 (2019): 1 hour, 43 minutes (103 minutes)
• Mardaani 3: 2 hours, 10 minutes, 36 seconds
The first half of `Mardaani 3` clocks in at 1 hour, 6 minutes, and 30 seconds, while the second half runs for 1 hour, 4 minutes, and 6 seconds.
Franchise Censor History: A Unique Trajectory
Interestingly, the `Mardaani` series has seen varied censor ratings. The first film, `Mardaani`, released in 2014, was a rare YRF production to receive an 'A' rating. In contrast, `Mardaani 3` now follows `Mardaani 2` in securing a U/A certificate, albeit with a 16+ advisory, indicating mature themes suitable for audiences aged 16 and above.
What to Expect from Rani Mukerji's Return
Rani Mukerji reprises her role as the formidable cop Shivani Shivaji Roy, leading the charge in `Mardaani 3`. This installment sees her joined by talented actors Janki Bodiwala and Mallika Prasad. Directed by Abhiraj Minawala, the thriller promises a gripping storyline where Shivani is in a relentless race against time to rescue several missing girls, underscoring the film's intense and socially relevant theme. Rani Mukerji has also expressed that `Mardaani 3` is her salute to India’s police force, a sentiment that resonates with the praise the trailer has already garnered.
