Audiences who went to watch the big Diwali release Thamma were treated to a special surprise, a 60-second announcement promo for Shakti Shalini. This teaser finally confirmed all the speculation: Saiyaara (2025) actress Aneet Padda has replaced Kiara Advani in the lead role.
The promo also locked the release date for the next film in the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe. Shakti Shalini is set to hit cinemas on December 24, 2026. In an exclusive chat, producer and universe mentor Amar Kaushik spilled the beans about the new film.
Only One Universe Film In 2026
Earlier, the plan was to release two more films from the horror-comedy universe in 2026: Bhediya 2 and Chamunda. We asked Amar if that plan is still on.
“There might be just one film (from the universe in 2026),” Amar said. “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.”
How Aneet Padda Was Cast
Amar Kaushik also explained exactly how Aneet Padda came on board for the main role. He revealed that the script itself demanded a change.
“When we were writing the script, we realized that we needed a younger actor,” he shared. “Meanwhile, we saw her film Saiyaara and realized that she suits the part perfectly for that character. She heard the story and came on board.”
Director Not Finalised, Shooting Starts Jan 2026
The announcement promo didn’t mention who will be directing the film. Will it be Amar Kaushik himself, or Aditya Sarpotdar, who directed Munjya and Thamma? Amar replied, “We are still in discussion and haven’t decided yet.”
He did, however, confirm the production timeline. When asked when the film will start shooting, Amar said, “The shooting will commence in January 2026.”
Amar Kaushik Wants To Make Pure Horror
Amar Kaushik has given hits in comedy (Bala) and horror-comedy (Stree, Munjya). But would he ever make a pure, serious horror film?
He answered excitedly, “Yes, I really want to. It’s my desire to make a horror film in this universe.” But he explained the challenge: “Ours is a horror comedy universe… people would expect fun moments, then it won’t be possible in this universe.” However, he didn’t rule it out completely. “I can definitely make a horror film outside this universe. I would love to make a pure horror movie with just 1 character!”
About Shakti Shalini
Shakti Shalini is an upcoming film in the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe. Produced by Amar Kaushik and Dinesh Vijan, the film stars Aneet Padda in the lead role. It is the latest addition to the successful universe which includes Stree, Bhediya, and Munjya, and is set for a worldwide theatrical release on December 24, 2026.
(Also read: Bhediya Varun Dhawan locks Horns With Ayushmann Khurrana In Thamma, Fans Go Berserk )
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