Following the success of Mardaani (2014) and Mardaani 2 (2019), Rani Mukerji returns as the fierce inspector Shivani Shivaji Roy in Mardaani 3. Produced by Yash Raj Films (YRF), the film was initially slated for release on February 27 but has been preponed to January 30, less than a week away.
The makers completed the censor certification process on time. Here’s an exclusive look at the cuts and modifications mandated by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) for the action thriller, as reported by Bollywood Hungama.
Key Changes by CBFC:
The CBFC required the addition of drug disclaimers in the film. The Hindi word ‘bachhi’ was replaced with ‘ladki’ (girl) to tone down sensitive language. Since a scene involved sexual violence, the makers had to provide proof that the actor was not a minor. Visuals depicting a girl being slapped were altered for sensitivity. The offensive English subtitle ‘whe’** was replaced with ‘trader’.
A derogatory reference to a mother was muted. Words referring to sexual organs were replaced with appropriate alternatives. Phrases negatively referencing the Government of India were also replaced. Names of certain countries were removed from a scene as per CBFC instructions. Clarifications were submitted regarding a dialogue spoken by kidnappers. Information texts on child and woman trafficking were added to the film.
After implementing these changes, Mardaani 3 was certified with a U/A 16+ rating on January 14. The film’s length at certification was 137 minutes and 7 seconds (2 hours, 17 minutes, and 7 seconds).
Voluntary Cuts by YRF
About 10 days post-certification, Yash Raj Films requested the CBFC to allow voluntary cuts to tighten the film. A total of 14 scenes were either deleted or shortened, with cuts ranging from 9 seconds to 59 seconds.
These voluntary edits trimmed the film by 6 minutes and 30 seconds, reducing the runtime to 130 minutes and 37 seconds (2 hours, 10 minutes, and 37 seconds). The CBFC approved these cuts on January 23.With these modifications, Mardaani 3 is set for its January 30 release, promising a taut and impactful thriller experience.
