Saiyaara star Aneet Padda to be paired with Thamma fame actor in Shakti Shalini?

Following the enormous success of Saiyaara, her debut musical romance, Aneet Padda is now pursuing more imaginative subjects. The newest member of the constantly expanding Maddock Horror Comedy Universe (MHCU), Shakti Shalini, is getting ready for the movie following a successful 2025 debut.

For the unversed, Shakti Shalini is a part of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe (MHCU), a well-liked franchise that combines humour, drama, and supernatural themes. The upcoming story's protagonist was originally hinted at in the end credits of last year's Thamma (2025).

Fans were given a sneak peek at the character Shakti Shalini in Ayushmann Khurrana's Thamma (2025) conclusion, which left them wondering what the franchise's future would bring. Sources close to the production have confirmed that the film has entered active production following the conclusion of the first schedule and the end of pre-production. According to a source in Mid Day, in order to accommodate more rigorous pre-production, the film's original January start date had to be somewhat accelerated. This delay will ensure that the MHCU's intricate world-building remains intact.

What is Aneet Padda's Next?

ayushman's story for aneet & shakti shalini ☹️💗 pic.twitter.com/bGhdbAPmcd

— 𑣲judy (@aneetmoons) October 25, 2025

Homebound (2025) actor Vishal Jethwa has apparently joined the cast opposite Padda, reuniting the two after their previous collaboration in Salaam Venky. The producers have not yet revealed all the cast details. The participation of director Aditya Sarpotdar, who is renowned for his work on Thamma and Munjya, is another significant development from today's sources. Sarpotdar is anticipated to lead this most recent MHCU entrance, adding consistency and vision to the growing brand.

According to reports, Kiara Advani was formerly considered by the filmmakers for the lead part in Shakti Shalini. Nevertheless, they chose Padda to be the franchise's future leader after seeing her outstanding performance in Saiyaara.

For Padda, the time of Shakti Shalini is a busy one. Apart from her duties in the MHCU, she is cast in a romantic drama for Yash Raj Films by Maneesh Sharma. She has also ventured into voice acting, lending her skills to Adi Shankar's Devil May Cry 2.

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