Shakti Shalini: Aneet Padda Leads Maddock’s New Supernatural Saga – Release Date, Plot & Universe Connection Explained

The Maddock Horror Comedy Universe (MHCU) just dropped a power-packed surprise for audiences this Diwali! In the end-credit scene of Thamma, fans got their first look at the next chapter — Shakti Shalini, starring Aneet Padda.

The teaser, projected in fiery Sanskrit-etched visuals, closed with the bold message:“SHAKTI UNLEASHED – DEC 24, 2026.”

A New Heroine in the Maddock Universe

After Stree, Bhediya, Roohi, and Thamma, Shakti Shalini marks Maddock’s first female-led supernatural franchise. Rising star Aneet Padda, best known for Saiyaara and her OTT appearances, headlines the film — a clear sign that Maddock is building its next-gen cinematic universe around a strong woman protagonist.

The visuals hint at a mystic tone: ancient scripts, circular yantras, and a glowing eye symbol at the center — suggesting the story could explore the divine feminine energy (“Shakti”) fighting dark forces rooted in Indian mythology.

The Thamma Connection

The announcement was attached to Thamma’s theatrical prints nationwide, confirming its place in the shared MHCU timeline. While Thamma explored vampiric folklore and cursed immortality, Shakti Shalini seems set to dive into Tantrik lore and mythic resurrection themes — expanding the supernatural mythos far beyond comedy into cosmic horror territory.

Rumor has it that one of Thamma’s closing frames teases an ancient bloodline linked to “Shakti” — possibly setting up Padda’s entry as a warrior-reincarnate character.

Release Date & Production

According to the on-screen reveal, Shakti Shalini will hit cinemas worldwide on December 24, 2026, making it Maddock’s grand Christmas 2026 release. The production is expected to begin in early 2025, with an official teaser likely dropping next Diwali.

If the timeline follows Maddock’s interconnected strategy, fans can expect post-credit cameos or mid-universe hints in upcoming sequels like Stree 2.5 or Bhediya Returns.

Why This Reveal Matters

• It cements Maddock’s cinematic universe as India’s longest-running interconnected franchise.

• It introduces a female superhero-like archetype within horror — a rare feat in Bollywood.

• It positions Aneet Padda as the new face of MHCU, bridging myth, fear, and female empowerment.

Aapke Sawal, Hamare Jawab! (FAQs)

1. What is Shakti Shalini about? While the plot remains under wraps, clues from the teaser suggest it will center around an ancient goddess-like force reborn in modern India to battle occult evil — blending mythology, feminism, and horror.

2. Who is Aneet Padda in Shakti Shalini? She is reportedly playing the titular Shalini, an archaeologist-turned-avenger who channels the power of “Shakti.” This would make her the Maddock Universe’s first true mythic heroine.

3. How is Shakti Shalini connected to Thamma? The end-credit tag in Thamma directly introduces Shakti Shalini. The two stories are expected to intertwine through a shared mythological origin, likely involving Yakshas and tantric curses.

4. When is Shakti Shalini releasing? Shakti Shalini releases on December 24, 2026, as officially revealed in the teaser shown after Thamma.

5. Is Shakti Shalini part of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe? Yes! It’s officially the sixth film in the MHCU after Stree, Roohi, Bhediya, Munjya, and Thamma.