Mumbai, Oct 21 (UNI) Aneet Padda, who captured widespread attention with her 2025 breakout performance in “Saiyaara”, has officially been announced as the leading lady in the upcoming horror-comedy franchise, “Shakti Shalini”.
The announcement was made through a special video unveiled alongside the theatrical release of “Thamma”, the Diwali 2025 outing featuring Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna.
This project marks Padda’s inaugural foray into the Maddok Horror-Comedy Universe, a genre-defining franchise inaugurated with “Stree” (2018) and expanded with “Bhediya” (2022) and “Munjya” (2024).
According to Bollywood Hungama, Aneet replaces Kiara Advani, who was initially approached for the role but later stepped away. Maddock Films had previously clarified that all casting reports were speculative and urged fans to wait for official updates. With Aneet now confirmed, all rumours about the lead role are settled.
Following a breakthrough year, “Shakti Shalini” presents an opportunity for Padda to explore a new genre while further consolidating her position in mainstream cinema, reports PINKVILLA.
Next year, film buffs can look forward to three more releases from the franchise: “Shakti Shalini”, “Chamunda”, and “Bhediya 2”. “Stree 3” is planned for 2027, followed by “Maha Munjya”, “Pehla Mahayudh”, and “Doosara Mahayudh” in 2028. Prominent actors like Shraddha Kapoor, Rajkummar Rao, Sharvari, Varun Dhawan, Akshay Kumar, and Ayushmann Khurrana are part of this cinematic universe, with more stars expected in upcoming films.
The film’s first look and teaser are expected to be out in early 2026. Scheduled for a theatrical release on December 24, 2026, “Shakti Shalini” has been strategically positioned to coincide with the festive and holiday season, aiming to draw a pan-India audience.
