Marking three decades of an illustrious journey in Indian cinema, Rani Mukerji has stepped into 2026 with gratitude, faith, and quiet optimism. The celebrated actor recently visited Pune’s revered Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati temple, where she sought blessings ahead of her upcoming film release. Dressed simply and radiating calm, Rani was seen performing the aarti inside the temple, embracing a moment of spiritual reflection amid a milestone year in her career.
#WATCH | Pune, Maharashtra: On offering prayers at Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Mandir, Actress Rani Mukerji says, “I always come here for darshan. Whenever I go anywhere, to any city, whether a film is releasing or not, I like to visit temples. When I was shooting for… pic.twitter.com/Q7D039xYek
— ANI (@ANI) January 17, 2026
Speaking to news agency ANI, the actor shared that visiting temples has become an integral part of her travels, irrespective of whether a film is releasing or not. Recalling her time in Pune during the shoot of Aiyyaa, Rani said she has long felt a personal connection with Dagdusheth Ganpati and makes it a point to offer prayers whenever she is in the city. With a new film on the horizon, she returned once again to seek blessings, not just for professional success but for a larger, more heartfelt cause.
“I always pray for peace in the world and happiness for everyone,” Rani expressed, adding that she hopes the suffering of children across the globe is eased and all obstacles are removed. Emphasising her grounded outlook, she noted that the fate of a film ultimately lies with the audience, and her visits to the temple are an expression of gratitude rather than expectation. Reflecting on her 30-year-long journey, Rani credited both divine blessings and the unwavering love of her audience for sustaining her career over the decades.
On the professional front, Rani Mukerji is set to return to one of her most powerful and loved roles with Mardaani 3. Produced by Yash Raj Films, the third instalment of the Mardaani franchise will see her reprise the role of the fearless cop Shivani Shivaji Roy. This time, she embarks on a high-stakes mission to rescue missing girls across India. The action-packed film is slated for a theatrical release on January 30, promising a gripping start to the year for the actor and her fans alike.