Aneet Padda, who gained widespread recognition for her performance in the 2025 romantic musical Saiyaara, is preparing to explore a different side of her acting abilities with Shakti Shalini. The 24-year-old actress has opened up about why she chose the horror-comedy over another romantic project, explaining that she wanted to challenge herself with a different genre and headline a film driven by her own performance.
In a recent interview with Variety India, Padda described the upcoming film as an opportunity to move beyond the romantic image associated with Saiyaara. The project is part of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe and combines action, romance and supernatural elements, offering the actress a chance to take on a distinctly different role.
Aneet Padda on Choosing ‘Shakti Shalini’ After ‘Saiyaara’
Discussing her decision to take up the project, Padda said she felt fortunate to have been offered a film that matched what she wanted to do after Saiyaara.
“I have been lucky to get Shakti Shalini. It’s by definition, the exact thing I’m going to want to do after Saiyaara,” she told.
The actress highlighted the film’s combination of action, romance and supernatural elements as an opportunity to explore a new dimension of her acting. She also revealed that she had been keen to headline a film in which she would carry the central responsibility.
“Also, I wanted to do a solo film, to be as blunt as I can be. I wanted to be able to say that this is my movie. As an actor, it’s on my shoulders,” Padda explained.
She acknowledged that leading a film independently could be intimidating but said she was grateful to receive such an opportunity early in her career. Reflecting on the responsibility, she added that whatever happened with the project would be hers to own.
Padda also looked back at the success of Saiyaara, in which she starred opposite Ahaan Panday. She felt the Mohit Suri directorial gave audiences an opportunity to reconnect with the idea of sincere, selfless and grand romance at a time when relationships among younger people are often discussed in terms of situationships and commitment issues.
According to the actress, the film presented love as something pure and beautiful while acknowledging the challenges that come with it.
What to Expect From ‘Shakti Shalini’
Directed by Aditya Sarpotdar, Shakti Shalini is planned as the sixth instalment in producer Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Horror Comedy Universe.
The story revolves around Shakti, an ordinary woman who transforms into a protector and confronts Shalini, a vengeful spirit seeking revenge on men following her brutal betrayal and death.
Alongside Aneet Padda, the film features Vishal Jethwa, Viineet Kumar Singh and Seema Biswas.
The project promises a combination of horror, comedy, romance and action, with Padda taking on the lead role. Her casting marks a notable change from the romantic drama that brought her widespread attention.
The film’s teaser was unveiled in October 2025. Although it was initially expected to release in December 2026, reports published earlier this month suggested that the theatrical debut could shift to early 2027, potentially March.
Nana Patekar’s Appearance and Aneet Padda’s Tribute
Shakti Shalini is also expected to feature a posthumous appearance by veteran actor Nana Patekar, who, according to the provided report, passed away on October 8, 2026, at the age of 75.
Remembering her experience of meeting the veteran actor, Padda shared a heartfelt message on Instagram. She recalled being almost speechless during their first meeting and described the experience of sitting across from someone so honest and unapologetically himself.
Her tribute reflected the impression Patekar made on her during their time working together. Director Aditya Sarpotdar has also confirmed that the film will serve as a tribute to the veteran actor.
A New Chapter in Aneet Padda’s Career
Aneet Padda’s career has progressed from a brief role in Salaam Venky to leading a major instalment in the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe. Her decision to take on Shakti Shalini reflects her interest in exploring varied characters rather than repeating the romantic roles associated with her recent success.
With a new genre, a lead role and the responsibility of carrying the story, the film represents an important next step for the actress. Audiences can expect to see a different side of Padda as she moves from the emotional romance of Saiyaara to the supernatural world of Shakti Shalini.