Aneet Padda Reveals Why She Chose ‘Shakti Shalini’ Over Romantic Films After ‘Saiyaara’

Aneet Padda, the breakout star who captured hearts nationwide with her poignant performance in the 2025 romantic musical Saiyaara, is making headlines once again, this time for a daring career move. The 24-year-old actress has openly discussed her conscious decision to transition from the grand romance that defined her last film to the intense horror-comedy Shakti Shalini, a much-anticipated instalment in the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe. This pivot, as she explained in a recent Variety India interview, is driven by a desire for diverse roles and the aspiration to lead a film entirely on her own shoulders. ‘Hunkkaar’ Series Review: Aneet Padda and Fatima Sana Shaikh Shine in a Gritty, Mixed-Bag Legal Thriller.

Aneet Padda on Choosing ‘Shakti Shalini’ After ’Saiyaara’

Speaking to Variety India ahead of Shakti Shalini's theatrical release, Aneet Padda articulated her rationale for embracing a project so distinct from her prior success. "I have been lucky to get Shakti Shalini. It's by definition, the exact thing I'm going to want to do after Saiyaara," Padda stated. She further elaborated on the film's unique blend, describing it as "action, romance and supernatural," which presented an invaluable opportunity to "explore a completely different version of me."

Padda, who gained widespread acclaim for her chemistry with Ahaan Panday in Saiyaara, emphasised her ambition for a solo-led project. "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," she revealed.

The actress acknowledged the rarity of such an opportunity for women in the industry, expressing her gratitude: "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."

Reflecting on the impact of Saiyaara, Padda noted that while her generation is often associated with 'situationships' and commitment issues, the Mohit Suri directorial offered audiences a chance to reconnect with "real, sacrificial or grand love." She believes Saiyaara was a perfect opportunity to portray love as something "pure, beautiful and grand, while all the time being incredibly challenging."

The Anticipated Release of

Shakti Shalini, directed by Aditya Sarpotdar, is set to be the sixth instalment in Dinesh Vijan's popular Maddock Horror Comedy Universe. The film's plot centres on Shakti, an ordinary woman who transforms into a protector, confronting Shalini, a vengeful spirit determined to punish men after her brutal betrayal and death. The cast boasts a stellar lineup alongside Aneet Padda, including Vishal Jethwa, Viineet Kumar Singh, and Seema Biswas.

Tragically, Shakti Shalini will also feature the posthumous appearance of veteran actor Nana Patekar, who passed away on October 8, 2026, at the age of 75. Padda, reflecting on her experience working with him, shared on Instagram, "The first time I met Nana Patekar, sir, I barely spoke. I think I was just taking it all in. To sit across from someone so honest, so unfiltered, so unapologetically himself was an experience in itself." Director Aditya Sarpotdar has confirmed that the film will serve as a fitting tribute to the cinematic legend.

While initially slated for a December 2026 release, reports from earlier this month indicate that Shakti Shalini is now eyeing a theatrical release in early 2027, potentially in March. The film's teaser was unveiled in October 2025. Aneet Padda, Ahaan Panday’s Hilarious Now-Deleted ‘Gali Gali’ Dance Video Goes Viral.

Aneet Padda's journey from a brief role in Salaam Venky to headlining a major cinematic universe instalment in just a few years underscores her rapid rise and commitment to challenging herself as an artist. With Shakti Shalini, she embarks on a new chapter, promising audiences a fresh and versatile performance that moves beyond the romantic image established by Saiyaara.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 15, 2026 05:19 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).