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Riding high on the success of her debut film Saiyaara, actress Aneet Padda is all set to take centre stage in Shakti Shalini, the next big chapter in the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe. The film, officially announced for release on December 24, 2026, introduces Aneet as Shakti Shalini — described as “the creator, the destroyer, and the mother of all.” Buzz around Aneet’s casting first picked up after Thamma’s post-credit scene went viral. A still from the film shows a mysterious woman in a white lehenga floating mid-air in a dense forest, her back to the camera and her long braid swaying in the wind. Though her face isn’t visible, fans are convinced it’s Aneet Padda, marking her grand entry into the horror-comedy universe. This will be Aneet’s second feature film after her impressive debut in Saiyaara, which earned her praise for her screen presence and emotional depth. Earlier, several reports had claimed that Kiara Advani was being considered for the role of Shakti Shalini, but it was Aneet who ultimately landed the part. Industry insiders believe producer Dinesh Vijan was particularly taken by her work in Saiyaara and saw her as the perfect fit to carry forward the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe, which already boasts hits like Stree, Roohi, Bhediya, and now Thamma. A source told entertainment portal Pinkvilla, “Aneet Padda has been in discussions for Shakti Shalini for the last two months, as Dinesh Vijan was on the lookout to infuse his universe with new energies. He loved Aneet’s work in Saiyaara and has decided to mount the next chapter of the horror comedy universe on her.” With Thamma starring Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui set to release in theatres on October 21, 2025, the post-credit scene has only fuelled anticipation for what’s next. Fans are already calling Shakti Shalini the “most powerful chapter yet” in Maddock’s interconnected horror-comedy franchise. As excitement builds, Aneet’s transformation from Saiyaara’s heartfelt lead to Shakti Shalini’s mystical powerhouse looks set to mark a defining moment in her career.
