The wait just got more exciting for fans of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe! Rising star Aneet Padda, who made waves with Saiyaara (2025), is officially leading the upcoming supernatural adventure Shakti Shalini, now set to hit theatres on December 24, 2026.
Aneet Padda Steps Into the Spotlight
After her breakout success, Aneet Padda continues to soar, replacing Kiara Advani in this much-talked-about project. The announcement video for Shakti Shalini was unveiled alongside Thamma, the big Diwali release, adding even more excitement for fans of the genre.
The Expanding Maddock Horror Comedy Universe
Following the roaring success of Stree (2018), Bhediya (2022), Munjya (2024), and Thamma (2025), Shakti Shalini marks the next thrilling chapter in the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe (MHCU). The franchise has become one of India’s most ambitious cinematic universes — blending supernatural themes, mythology, and sharp humor with a desi twist.
Release Calendar and What’s Next
Originally slated for December 31, 2025, the release has now been pushed to Christmas 2026 — setting the stage for a power-packed year ahead. The MHCU lineup for 2026 will also include Chamunda and Bhediya 2, followed by Stree 3 in 2027. In 2028, the saga is expected to conclude with an epic trilogy — Maha Munjya, Pehla Mahayudh, and Doosara Mahayudh.
The Ever-Growing Star Cast
The Maddock Universe already boasts an ensemble of Bollywood’s finest — Shraddha Kapoor, Rajkummar Rao, Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, Varun Dhawan, Sharvari Wagh, and now Aneet Padda — with Akshay Kumar rumored to play a key role tying the narrative together.
A Desi Marvel Moment
The Maddock Horror Comedy Universe has become India’s answer to Marvel’s multiverse — a genre-bending cinematic spectacle where supernatural legends meet small-town humor. With Shakti Shalini at its core, audiences can expect a film that fuses action, emotion, and eerie laughter in equal measure.
