Anticipation for Maddock Films' upcoming horror-comedy 'Shakti Shalini' has reached a fever pitch following a leaked behind-the-scenes video of leads Aneet Padda and Vishal Jethwa going viral on social media. Directed by Aditya Sarpotdar, the film marks a highly anticipated reunion for the duo after their 2022 collaboration in Salaam Venky.
While the highly secretive project is rooted in dark folklore continuing the massively successful supernatural universe established by 'Stree' and 'Munjya,' this rare BTS footage showcases a lighter, romantic side to the co-stars. With principal photography recently wrapping up a massive climax sequence in Mumbai, the viral snippet has sparked intense fan theories about their on-screen dynamic ahead of the film's scheduled December 24, 2026, theatrical release.
Aneet Padda and Vishal Jethwa's Trees, Laughter, and Pure Joy
In the viral clip, Aneet can be seen playfully running around a tree while holding Vishal’s hand, and the two are clearly enjoying themselves. She is dressed in a blue printed shirt with a red flowing skirt, while Vishal Jethwa, in a blue shirt and grey trousers, follows her with the same cheerful energy as they laugh together.
Aneet Padda and Vishal Jethwa's Reunion in 'Shakti Shalini' Is Built on Trust and Talent
‘Shakti Shalini’ marks yet another collaboration between Vishal and Aneet, who first worked together on the 2022 film ‘Salaam Venky’. Vishal has long held a deep respect for Aneet's ability to connect with her emotions on screen. In a 2025 conversation with us, he spoke about her remarkable commitment to her craft, noting that she never relied on glycerin for her tearful scenes and genuinely immersed herself in every emotional moment, making each performance feel completely authentic.
Aneet Padda Takes on a Double Role in 'Shakti Shalini' Alongside a Stellar Cast
Aneet Padda's casting as the lead was made official in 2025, though audiences had already caught a tantalizing peek at her character through the post-credits scene of ‘Thamma’, which released on October 21, 2025. That brief but compelling sequence introduced her character with the enigmatic description, 'the creator, the destroyer, and the mother of all.' Adding to the intrigue, Aneet will be seen in a double role, taking on the contrasting personas of the story's supreme guardian and its dark, wrathful force. The film also brings together seasoned performers Nana Patekar, Seema Biswas, and Viineet Kumar Siingh in significant roles.
'Shakti Shalini' Shoot Wrapped, Release Date Locked
The team behind ‘Shakti Shalini’ recently wrapped up the last schedule of the shoot at Chitrarth Studio in Powai, Mumbai, where a grand climax sequence was brought to life. Before heading to the studio, the cast and crew embarked on extensive shoots across various locations in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh to capture some of the film's pivotal sequences. ‘Shakti Shalini’ is set to arrive in theatres on December 24, 2026.
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