How did Aneet Padda get the role of ‘Shakti Shalini’? The director reveals the secret!

How Aneet Padda became the ‘Shakti Shalini’ of the Maddock Horror Universe. Filmmaker Amar Kaushik tells the story.

A big leap after ‘Saiyaara’!

Aneet Padda‘s debut film, ‘Saiyaara’, was a hit, and now she’s set to play the lead role in Maddock Horror Comedy Universe’s new film, ‘Shakti Shalini.’

The film was announced with a theatrical trailer alongside ‘Thamma,’ but the question remained: how did Aneet get the role? Director Amar Kaushik finally revealed the secret.

This is how the casting happened!

Amar Kaushik explained that while writing the script, he felt the need for a young actress.

At that very moment, he saw Aneet’s film ‘Saiyaara’ and knew the role was perfect for her.

After hearing the story, Aneet immediately agreed. Interestingly, there were rumors that Kiara Advani was in talks for the role, but Aneet ultimately bagged it.

Director not yet confirmed

Although Aneet’s casting is confirmed, the film’s director is still unclear.

Amar Kaushik stated that whether he will direct the project himself is still a matter of discussion. His team has yet to decide.

Release in 2026

Maddock Films has decided to release only one film next year, ‘Shakti Shalini’. Amar says he feels releasing multiple films at once could lead to a film overdose, so he is launching his films gradually.

The post-credits scene of ‘Thamma’ has further increased the excitement about ‘Shakthi Shalini’, and fans are calling it the most powerful horror-comedy film of Maddock Universe to date.