‘Mardani 3’ is redefining crime thrillers, blending high-stakes action with emotional depth, thanks to Rani Mukerji’s tour-de-force and director Abhiraj Minawala’s visionary direction. In a revealing IANS interview, Minawala shared his evolution at Yash Raj Films, likening it to the ultimate film school.
His journey began with ‘Rocket Singh’ straight out of college—a launchpad he never anticipated. ‘I planned to do a couple of films then head to acting school, but YRF became my real education,’ he said. The production house’s nurturing environment turned fleeting gigs into a lifelong passion.
The Mardani offer from Aditya Chopra was a career pinnacle. Honoring Pradeep Sarkar’s foundational vision and Gopi Puthran’s expansions, Minawala felt the weight of legacy. Collaborating with Mukerji amplified the stakes: deliver a script-worthy adaptation while propelling the series forward.
Behind-the-scenes rigor defined success. ‘We huddled with Rani and writer Ayush Gupta, debating every sequence in pre-production,’ he detailed. This groundwork allowed shoots to prioritize artistry over logistics. Mukerji’s seasoned insights minimized wastes, embodying YRF’s ethos of precision. With ‘Mardani 3’ smashing records, Minawala exemplifies how Yash Raj’s family-like support crafts directors who redefine genres.