Bollywood’s rising sensation Aneet Padda, fresh off the blockbuster success of her debut film Saiyaara (2025), is set to deliver a career-defining performance with a challenging double role in the upcoming horror-comedy Shakti Shalini. The latest update from the sets reveals that Padda will essay two contrasting characters — Shakti, a relatable everyday woman who transforms into an indestructible protective force, and Shalini, a fearsome vengeful female ghost rooted in Bengali folklore.
The film, directed by Aditya Sarpotdar and produced/co-written by Amar Kaushik under the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe (MHCU), promises a fresh spin on the eternal battle between good and evil. According to sources, the narrative draws heavily from Bengali mythology and folklore. Shalini is portrayed as a spirit who haunts trees and water bodies, seeking revenge on men after suffering a brutal betrayal and death in her lifetime. When this evil entity targets an innocent family, the ordinary woman Shakti is invoked as the ultimate embodiment of power — akin to Goddess Kali, the destroyer of evil — turning her into a formidable warrior spirit determined to vanquish the malevolent force
This dual role marks a significant genre shift for Padda, who rose to prominence with the romantic drama Saiyaara. Insiders suggest the part allows her to showcase both vulnerability and raw intensity, blending horror, comedy, and strong dramatic elements. The project is positioned as one of the most ambitious entries in the successful MHCU franchise, which includes hits like Stree, Bhediya, Munjya, Stree 2, and Thamma. Shakti Shalini was teased in the end-credits scene of Thamma, generating huge anticipation among fans of the universe.
Joining Padda is a promising ensemble: Vishal Jethwa, her co-star from Salaam Venky, is reportedly playing her romantic interest, while Viineet Kumar Siingh (also referred to as Vineet Kumar Singh) has been roped in as the lead antagonist. The film went on floors in Mumbai last month (March 2026). The team is currently shooting at Madh Island, where an elaborate set recreating a small town in West Bengal has been erected. The next schedule will move to Madhya Pradesh for extensive outdoor filming in Datia, Gwalior, Morena, and surrounding areas.
With principal photography underway and a grand scale of production, Shakti Shalini is shaping up to be a festive treat. Reports indicate a potential Christmas 2026 release (December 24), though official confirmation is awaited. For Aneet Padda, this project represents not just a double role but a bold step into leading a major franchise — proving that the young actress is ready to shoulder powerful, myth-inspired characters with conviction.
In an industry hungry for fresh talent and innovative storytelling, Shakti Shalini could well become the next big phenomenon in Indian horror-comedy, blending cultural folklore with cinematic spectacle. Audiences are already buzzing with excitement to see Padda’s transformation from girl-next-door to goddess-like protector and her chilling turn as the vengeful spirit