After 'Saiyaara,', Aneet Padda gears up to begin 'Shakti Shalini' shoot in March - Reports

Making waves with their debut film, 'Saiyaara', Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda have struck a chord with younger audiences and stayed in the spotlight all of 2025. Now, the actress is ready for a new phase and will headline ‘Shakti Shalini’, the next story teased during the climax of ‘Thamma’, expanding into the much-loved Horror Comedy Universe of the production house.

More about 'Shakti Shalini'

According to Mid-day, the buzz around ‘Shakti Shalini’ is finally materializing as the team has nearly wrapped up pre-production. The first shooting schedule has also been locked. Padda is expected to begin filming in March. The makers have planned a long and demanding schedule to bring the world alive.“Aneet will begin shooting for the film in March. It’s going to be a marathon schedule. The film was earlier set to start rolling in January, but pre-production needed more time,” as per the report.

Casting buzz and a familiar captain

Speculations around the cast continue to grow. Industry circles suggest Vishal Jethwa, seen recently in 'Homebound,' may be paired opposite Padda. The makers are yet to confirm the same, officially. On the directing front, however, clarity seems closer as 'Thamma' director

Aditya Sarpotdar

is said to be leading the project. His association with the universe began with 'Munjya'.“Aditya’s relationship with Maddock Films began with 'Munjya' (2024).

He has a flair for combining mythology, horror, and humour. 'Shakti Shalini' is fleshed out slightly different from the other MHCU films. [It will have] far more drama,” according to the same report.

On the work front

Producer Dinesh Vijan had earlier explored other names, including Kiara Advani, before finalising Padda. Beyond this film, Aneet Padda's work slate looks packed. She will star in a romantic drama backed by Yash Raj, directed by Maneesh Sharma. She has also lent her voice to

Adi Shankar

’s ‘Devil May Cry 2’.