After making a sparkling debut with Saiyaara, Aneet Padda is ready to take her next big leap in Bollywood. The actress, who was launched by Aditya Chopra alongside Ahaan Panday in the Mohit Suri directorial earlier this year, has now signed her second major film  and it’s none other than a part of Dinesh Vijan’s much-talked-about horror comedy universe.
 

From Saiyaara to Shakti Shalini

Released in July 2025, Saiyaara was not just a blockbuster but also a career-defining film for its fresh leads. While curiosity continues around Ahaan Panday’s next project, we can confirm that Aneet Padda has locked her next  Maddock Films’ Shakti Shalini.

According to sources, the actress has already completed her look test and an exclusive photoshoot for the project. “Aneet has been in active discussions for the past two months. Dinesh Vijan wanted to bring new energy into his universe and was mighty impressed with Aneet’s screen presence in Saiyaara. He has now entrusted her with leading Shakti Shalini,” says a source close to the development.

Direction Under Wraps, Shoot Timeline Locked

Shakti Shalini is expected to roll towards the end of 2025. While the director’s name has not been officially revealed yet, Dinesh Vijan is considering Munjya fame Aditya Sarpotdar, though Ajitpal Singh (Tabbar) is also in contention. A final decision is expected soon.

Interestingly, the project was initially announced with Kiara Advani in the lead role. However, the actress has since stepped away, paving the way for Aneet Padda to headline the film.

Maddock’s Horror Comedy Lineup

Meanwhile, Maddock Films is gearing up for a festive release with Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna’s Thama this Diwali. Post that, Shakti Shalini will carry forward the universe, followed by Chamunda, which stars Alia Bhatt in the titular role. Chamunda is scheduled to kick off in May 2026, once Alia wraps up Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love and War.

With back-to-back big names and exciting concepts, Dinesh Vijan’s horror comedy universe is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious franchises in Hindi cinema. And with Aneet Padda stepping into this universe, fans can surely expect fireworks on screen.

Stay tuned for more updates on Shakti Shalini and Maddock’s upcoming lineup.