Aneet Padda says ‘Shakti Shalini’ was the film she wanted after ‘Saiyaara’
During her conversation with Variety India, Aneet was asked whether moving away from romance after the success of ‘Saiyaara’ was a conscious decision. The actress said she was keen to explore a different genre and was grateful to have landed a project that offered her that opportunity.“100%! I have been lucky to get ‘Shakti Shalini’. It’s by definition, the exact thing I’m going to want to do after ‘Saiyaara.’ It’s so different. It’s action, romance and supernatural. I’ve gotten the chance to explore a completely different version of me,” she said.For Aneet, the film also represents an opportunity to take on a role that places her at the centre of the story. She admitted that she had specifically wanted to lead a solo project, even though doing so comes with considerable 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. And how many women get to do that? I just felt very lucky to be able to have that in my second film. Even though it’s completely on my shoulders and that can be a little bit intimidating, but whatever happens with it is mine to own,” she added.
Aneet Padda’s ‘Shakti Shalini’ announcement
‘Shakti Shalini’ was announced last Diwali, with its title promo playing alongside ‘Thamma’. The promotional material introduced the central character through the descriptions “The Protector”, “The Destroyer” and “The Mother Of All”. The film is part of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe, the interconnected franchise that combines supernatural stories with horror and comedy elements. The project marks another addition to the studio’s expanding slate of genre films. For Aneet, the film’s blend of action, romance and supernatural elements also offers a departure from the romantic world of ‘Saiyaara’, allowing her to explore a character in a very different setting.
‘Shakti Shalini’ cast and release date
‘Shakti Shalini’ features Aneet Padda alongside Nana Patekar, Vineet Kumar Singh and Vishal Jethwa. The film was initially scheduled to release in December 2026, but recent reports have suggested that its release could move to 2027. The makers have yet to announce a revised release date officially, so the reported change remains unconfirmed.