Bollywood Hungama was among the first to confirm that Aneet Padda, who became a nationwide sensation with *Saiyaara* (2025), has replaced Kiara Advani in *Shakti Shalini*. On October 19, we also brought you the news that the *Shakti Shalini* announcement video will be attached to *Thamma*, the grand Diwali release.
Now, we bring you another exciting update from the film. It has come to light that *Shakti Shalini* is set to release in cinemas on December 24, 2026.
### BREAKING: Aneet Padda’s *Shakti Shalini* to Release on December 24, 2026
Just like *Thamma*, *Shakti Shalini* belongs to the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe. This blockbuster franchise began with *Stree* (2018), followed by *Bhediya* (2022). *Munjya* (2024) came next and was a sleeper super-hit. *Stree 2* (2024) then emerged as the highest-grossing Bollywood film of all time. *Thamma* is the fifth film in this universe.
When *Shakti Shalini* starred Kiara Advani, the plan was to release it on December 31, 2025. With Aneet Padda now taking the lead and the release pushed to 2026, it means three films from the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe will arrive next year: *Shakti Shalini*, *Chamunda*, and *Bhediya 2*. *Stree 3* is scheduled for 2027.
Looking ahead to 2028, the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe is set to conclude with three exciting movies: *Maha Munjya*, *Pehla Mahayudh*, and *Doosara Mahayudh*.
### Star Cast and Future of the Universe
So far, prominent names have been part of this cinematic world, including Shraddha Kapoor, Rajkummar Rao, Sharvari, Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, Varun Dhawan, Aneet Padda, and, above all, Akshay Kumar. Many more famous actors are expected to join the series in upcoming films.
The Maddock Horror Comedy Universe has evolved into India’s own Marvel-style saga, with *Shakti Shalini* poised to be the next major chapter that ties all the worlds together. Each film introduces new characters and mythologies, setting the stage for a multi-film crossover event that fans have long awaited.
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**Also Read:** [*Shakti Shalini* announcement video to debut with *Thamma*: First glimpse reveals Aneet Padda’s starring role]
**More Pages:** [*Shakti Shalini* Box Office Collection] | [Bollywood News Live Updates]
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/breaking-aneet-paddas-shakti-shalini-release-december-24-2026/