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 Thammas post-credit scene there was initial excitement about Aneets 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 its 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 Aneets 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 films October 21 2025 theatrical release. Fans are already referring to Shakti Shalini as the most powerful chapter yet in Maddocks interwoven horror-comedy series. Aneets transition from Saiyaaras emotional lead to Shakti Shalinis 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.