Get ready, Maddock’s Horror Comedy Universe just got a major upgrade. Shakti Shalini isn’t just another spooky flick with a few laughs thrown in. This one’s got bite. Aneet Padda leads the charge in this female-driven story, and she isn’t just playing another scream queen. She’s bringing real emotion, slick action, and a whole lot of attitude. If you thought Bhediya or Stree were wild, wait till you see what’s coming.

Vishal Jethwa teams up with her. These two were in Salaam Venky, and now they’re back, this time with ghosts, jump scares, and a romance that’s anything but ordinary. Aditya Sarpotdar, who knows a thing or two about mixing horror and humor (remember Munjya?), is back in the director’s chair. He’s promising more drama, more action, and a lot more heart. Mark your calendar, Shakti Shalini hits theaters right on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2026.

Aneet Padda’s on a roll. After grabbing everyone’s attention in Saiyaara, she’s stepping up as the heart and soul of Shakti Shalini. Word is, her role’s no cakewalk. She’s hitting the gym, pushing herself emotionally, and diving deep into a character that’s a far cry from anything she’s done before. People were whispering about Kiara Advani joining the film, but Padda landed the part, and it’s about to take her career to a whole new level.

Vishal Jethwa, still fresh in everyone’s mind from Homebound, joins the cast right alongside her. They left audiences wanting more after Salaam Venky, and now they’re back, but with way higher stakes. Jethwa’s character isn’t just a love interest. He’s the spark that sets off the whole story, challenging Padda’s character every step of the way. Insiders are calling their romance “twisted”, think less fairy-tale, more haunted house.

And then there’s Sarpotdar. He’s got a knack for finding that sweet spot between chills and chuckles, and Shakti Shalini is supposed to be his most layered story yet. Dinesh Vijan and Maddock Films are keeping their winning streak alive, doubling down on a genre they’ve made their own. Indian audiences can’t get enough of these horror comedies, and this one aims even higher.

Filming starts right after Holi, around March 9, 2026. Padda’s got her final-year exams out of the way by January, so she’s going all-in. No distractions, just pure prep for a role that’s demanding in every way. The team isn’t budging from that Christmas release date. December 24, 2026, is locked in, perfect timing for the holiday crowds. Maddock’s pulled off this festive strategy before, and you can bet they’re aiming for another blockbuster.

So, what really sets Shakti Shalini apart from the rest of the MHCU? It’s not just the ghosts and gags, this one’s got high-octane action and a storyline that puts the actors front and center. Fans are already buzzing about possible crossovers with Munjya or Thamma characters, but Maddock’s keeping the details close to the vest.

Aneet Padda and Vishal Jethwa are primed for stardom, and the mix of scares, laughs, and romance could set a whole new standard for the genre. Keep your eyes peeled, this is one Christmas release nobody’s going to miss.