Maddock Films' Shakti Shalini Shooting Timeline Revealed As Amar Kaushik Explains How Aneet Padda Came On Board

Mumbai, October 23 - Aneet Padda shot to nationwide fame after the mega blockbuster success of Yash Raj Films' Saiyaara, which marked her memorable debut. It didn't take long for the actress to land her second major role, after Maddock Films announced her as the face of its next horror comedy film, Shakti Shalini.

Touted as the biggest role yet, the actress replaced Kiara Advani to headline the upcoming film, which is set to release on December 24, 2026. Amar Kaushik, the architect behind Maddock Horror Comedy Universe and the mentor of the universe, explained how Padda came on board as the lead of such a big project.

"When we were writing the script, we realised that we needed a younger actor. Meanwhile, we saw her film Saiyaara and realised that she suits the part perfectly for that character. She heard the story and came on board", Kaushik said in an interview with Bollywood Hungama.

The director of Shakit Shalini is not locked yet, as the makers are still in discussion. There are rumours that either Kaushik or Thamma fame Aditya Sarpotdar will helm the project, but nothing is confirmed yet. Meanwhile, Kaushik confirmed that the film will go on floors in January 2026.

Shakti Shalini will be the only release in Maddock's Horror Comedy Universe, as Amar Kaushik said that they don't want an overdose of MHCU films. "We feel that there should not be an overdose, and we should not give too many films in a short period. Hence, as of now, the plan is to only bring Shakti Shalini next year", he said.

Stay tuned...