2 minutes of readingNew DelhiUpdated: January 30, 2026 01:10 pm IST
Director Abhiraj Minawala’s Mardaani 3 began its theatrical run on January 30, after lead actor Rani Mukerji did extensive press. However, despite all the tactics, the opening day numbers look disappointing. According to industry tracker Sacnilk, the film earned Rs 1.16 crore in advance ticket sales. At the time of publishing, Mardaani 3 had collected Rs 41 lakh at the box office. Given the meticulous planning behind the release, the creators will likely be disappointed with the initial response.
According to Bollywood Hungama, instead of a traditional multiplex release, the makers decided to go for an approach that included limited screens and affordable prices to maximize occupancy rates.
This similar model was used in Mohit Suri’s Saiyaara, which turned out to be one of the biggest hits of 2025earning Rs 329 crore nett domestically. Now, the same studio, YRF, has tried something similar with Mardaani 3. Typically, films backed by big production houses aim for 10-15 screenings in a day. Mardaani 3 has limited that number to just 6, regardless of the number of screens. In theaters with two screens, the film will only be shown after 3:00 p.m. They have used a fixed pricing model with prices ranging between Rs 260 and Rs 340.
While this model worked for Saiyaara, there is no guarantee that it will do the same for Mardaani 3. However, as a franchise film, Mardaani 3 has a stronger foundation to build on. Mardaani (2014) was directed by Pradeep Sarkar and earned Rs 35.56 crore nett over Rs 20 crore reported. budget. The second film grossed Rs 47 crore nett on a budget of Rs 30 crore. Both the films turned out to be quite good investments and their opening day figures were Rs 3.4 crore and Rs 3.8 crore respectively.
As the weekend approaches, afternoon and evening shows are likely to yield better numbers. As of now, Mardaani 3 has 5024 shows across the country, with NCR leading the way (624 shows).
Directed by Abhiraj Minawala, the cast of Mardaani 3 includes Rani Mukerji, Mallika Prasad and Janki Bodiwala.