Meet actress who gave a blockbuster debut, now set to be a part of Maddock’s horror comedy universe as…, her name is…
After her impressive debut, she is going to step into the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe as the enigmatic and powerful Shakti Shalini, set to release on December 24, 2026.

Rising from her emotional debut, an actress prepares to embody a force both feared and revered, the creator, the destroyer, the mother of all, in the next chapter of a beloved horror-comedy universe.
Yes, you read it right! Actress Aneet Padda is poised to take centre stage in Shakti Shalini, the next major instalment in the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe, riding high on the success of her debut film, Saiyaara. Aneet plays Shakti Shalini, who is said to as “the creator, the destroyer, and the mother of all” in the movie, which is formally scheduled for release on December 24, 2026.
Following the viral success of Thamma’s post-credit scene, there was initial excitement about Aneet’s casting. With her back to the camera and her long braid flapping in the wind, a mysterious woman wearing a white lehenga is seen in a still from the movie hanging in midair in a deep jungle. Fans are certain it’s Aneet Padda, even though her face is hidden, signalling her big debut in the horror-comedy genre.
Following her stellar debut in Saiyaara, where she received acclaim for her emotional depth and on-screen persona, this will be Aneet’s second feature film.
About her role in the film
Aneet ended up playing Shakti Shalini, despite earlier speculations that Kiara Advani was being considered for the role. According to industry insiders, producer Dinesh Vijan was very impressed with her performance in Saiyaara and thought she would be a great addition to the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe, which already includes successful films 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.”
The post-credit scene of Thamma, which stars Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui, has only increased excitement for the film’s October 21, 2025, theatrical release. Fans are already referring to Shakti Shalini as the “most powerful chapter yet” in Maddock’s interwoven horror-comedy series.
Aneet’s transition from Saiyaara’s emotional lead to Shakti Shalini’s mystical powerhouse appears to be a turning point in her career as anticipation grows.
Highlights:
- Aneet Padda takes the lead in Maddock Horror Comedy Universe’s next big chapter.
- Shakti Shalini is set to be released on December 24, 2026.
- Fans call it the “most powerful chapter yet” after her Saiyaara debut.
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