OPINION: Rise of female cop characters on big screen; from Rani Mukerji in Mardaani to Tabu in Drishyam

On April 21st, 2025, the initial glimpse of the forthcoming movie Mardaani 3, starring Rani Mukerji as the police officer Shivani Shivaji Roy, was unveiled. The film is scheduled to hit theaters on February 27th, 2026. As we eagerly anticipate the reappearance of Rani’s impressive portrayal, let me share some thoughts about the surge in strong female cop characters gracing Bollywood screens.

In Hindi movies, there are numerous notable cop characters played by actresses. These include Rani Mukerji in the Mardaani series, Tabu in Drishyam films, Kareena Kapoor Khan in The Buckingham Murders, Deepika Padukone in Singham Again, and others. Despite being police roles, each character’s depiction and narrative has been unique.

From my perspective, it seems that there are multiple factors contributing to the increasing presence of such characters in Bollywood movies and the audience’s attraction towards them. Initially, a female character in uniform challenges stereotypes. Instead of being portrayed as damsel’s-in-distress, they become the saviors and dispensers of justice.

Moreover, it’s not only about police roles, but there’s an increasing interest from viewers to witness women starring in action films. It seems that the audience is eager to see women engaging in physical combat, taking part in high-speed pursuits, and battling villains on screen.

Furthermore, female police officers aren’t merely depicted as figures of immense power and strength; they are portrayed as complex characters with personal struggles and emotional histories. For instance, Tabu in Drishyam is presented not only as a shrewd and intense officer but also as a distraught mother yearning for her child’s return. Likewise, Kareena Kapoor Khan’s character grapples with her own pain while investigating the case of a missing child. Mardaani, too, explores Rani Mukerji’s family dynamics.

Ultimately, it’s awe-inspiring to witness these leading Bollywood actresses embodying such profound characters. Their performances ignite dialogues that delve into critical issues, such as the portrayal of gender roles and representation, making me even more captivated by their artistry.

As a committed enthusiast, I firmly believe that we’ll see an increasing representation of female police officers in future productions. This growth not only reflects reality but also resonates with audiences, making stories more diverse and engaging.

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2025-04-21 20:37