Aneet Padda Takes the Lead in Maddock's Upcoming Shakti Shalini

After extensive speculation regarding the leading lady for the horror-comedy Shakti Shalini, Maddock Films has officially appointed Aneet Padda, known for her role in Saiyaara, as the female lead. This announcement coincided with the unveiling of the film’s first teaser, which was presented in theatres alongside Thamma, featuring performances by Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui.

Producer Amar Kaushik, a pivotal figure within Maddock’s horror-comedy ensemble, shared the thought process behind selecting Aneet Padda. He noted that the script development indicated the need for a younger actress for the role. After watching her performance in Saiyaara, the team unanimously felt she was ideal for the part. Aneet readily agreed upon hearing the narrative. Kaushik further disclosed that filming for Shakti Shalini is scheduled to commence in January 2026.

On Maddock’s 2026 film agenda, Kaushik indicated that Shakti Shalini would represent the sole release from their horror-comedy lineup that year. He emphasized the team's intention to prevent an “overload” of releases, allowing audiences to digest each film without feeling overwhelmed. Discussions regarding the director for the film are still underway.

Since its inception with Stree in 2018, Maddock Films has been systematically constructing its Horror Comedy Universe. This universe has broadened with titles like Bhediya, inspired by Arunachal Pradesh’s legendary shapeshifting werewolf, and Munjya, centered on a mischievous creature from Marathi lore. The latest installment, Thamma, narrates a bloody love saga featuring Ayushmann Khurrana as a vampire-turned-historian infatuated with Rashmika Mandanna’s Tadaka. The decision to showcase the Shakti Shalini teaser alongside Thamma marks a significant evolution in Maddock's cinematic universe.

With Aneet Padda leading the charge, Shakti Shalini promises to be a dynamic blend of mythology and horror, targeting a theatrical release on December 24, 2026.