Ranbir Kapoor Celebrates Rani Mukerji’s 30-Year Career as ‘Mardaani 3’ Marks Milestone (EXCLUSIVE)

Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor has praised fellow actor Rani Mukerji‘s three-decade legacy in Indian cinema as the industry rallies around the actor with the upcoming release of “Mardaani 3.”

“It is really amazing to see the entire industry come forward to celebrate 30 years of her iconic legacy,” said Kapoor, who co-starred with Mukerji in his 2007 debut “Saawariya.” “I have always felt that Rani is one for the ages, one of the greatest ever actors in India and someone who has defined our industry through her work. Her choice of projects and roles have shaped how women are portrayed on the screen today.”

“Mardaani 3,” where Mukerji returns in the lead role of police officer Shivani Shivaji Roy, will focus on the kidnapping of girls aged 8-9 from low-income communities across India. Directed by Abhiraj Minawala and produced by Aditya Chopra for Yash Raj Films, the film extends the franchise’s examination of crimes against women.

The franchise launched in 2014 with “Mardaani,” which centered on human trafficking. “Mardaani 2” followed in 2019, exploring a serial rapist who challenged law enforcement. Mukerji was last seen in critical and commercial success “Mrs. Chatterjee vs. Norway” (2023).

“Rani is the co-star of my first film ‘Sawaariya’ and she is the first person who told me that if I worked hard, I would go a long way. I will never forget that interaction because it gave me so much confidence when I needed it the most,” Kapoor said. “I have seen her as a person closely, I have seen her work closely and have been bowled over by her grace, charm and brilliance.”

Kapoor added: “Thank you Rani for the movies, the memories, the nostalgia and the powerhouse performances. She is an entertainer who has dedicated her life to make people happy and I don’t have words to describe the impact her films have had on me.”

“Mardaani 3” releases Jan. 30.