Following the success of her debut film Saiyaara, Aneet Padda has been cast as the lead in Shakti Shalini, the sixth installment of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe (MHCU). Fans first caught a glimpse of her character in the post-credits scene of Thamma, starring Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna. The scene introduced a mysterious woman in a white lehenga, floating mid-air in a dense forest, her long braid swaying in the wind. While her face wasn’t visible, viewers quickly speculated that it was Aneet, signaling her grand entry into the horror-comedy franchise.
Ayushmann Khurrana welcomed her to the MHCU via Instagram stories, writing, “Welcome to the MHCU @aneetpadda_ Punjabi aa gaye oye!! From one dreamer to another—keep chasing what you want. Nothing is impossible… so proud to see someone from Punjab making us all proud. Can’t wait to see you shine in Shakti Shalini! Onwards and upwards, Aneet.” The post garnered excitement among fans, celebrating Aneet’s addition to the popular franchise.
Initially, reports had suggested Kiara Advani might play the lead, but it was Aneet Padda, lauded for her screen presence and emotional depth in Saiyaara, who ultimately secured the role. In the film, she is introduced as “Shakti Shalini — the creator, the destroyer, and the mother of all.” Director Amar Kaushik shared that while developing the script, they realised a younger actor was needed, and Aneet’s performance in Saiyaara made her the perfect fit.
Shakti Shalini is officially slated for release on December 24, 2026, promising to expand the MHCU with Aneet at the forefront. While she plays the protagonist, the director for the horror-comedy has not yet been confirmed. This marks Aneet’s second feature film, and anticipation is high as fans await her performance in the supernatural yet humorous universe of MHCU.
