'Saiyaara' Actor Aneet Padda Replaces Kiara Advani In Maddock Horror Comedy: Report

Mumbai: After winning hearts with her debut performance in ‘Saiyaara’, Aneet Padda has been roped in by Maddock Films for their upcoming horror comedy ‘Shakti Shalini.’

According to a report in Pinkvilla, the initial choice for Maddock’s ‘Shakti Shalini’ was Kiara Advani. However, the makers now want fresh faces for the film and are in talks with Aneet for the role.

“Aneet Padda has been in discussions for Shakti Shalini for the last two months, as Dinesh Vijan was on the lookout to infuse his universe with new energies. He loved Aneet’s work in Saiyaara, and has decided to mount the next chapter of horror comedy universe on her,” a source was quoted as saying by Pinkvilla.

“Shakti Shalini is expected to begin towards the end of 2025. While the director’s name has been kept under wraps for now, Dinesh Vijan is keen to rope in Aditya Sarpotdar (Munjya fame) for the part. However, the final call on direction will be taken in a fortnight.”

As soon as the news went viral, fans took to social media to share their excitement.

“Happy for Aneet.. Sad for Kiara she has to face the effects of failure of War 2,” wrote a fan.

“Aneet’s rise in Bollywood has to be studied.. she’s just 22 years old and has a three-film deal with yrf and she has entered one of the biggest horror franchise with Maddock. Some people are born with all the luck in the world I guess!! She’s literally god’s favourite child. Even rashmika mandana feels like a step child now😂,” expressed another user.

“Soooo happy for Aneet! Now I am finally getting back to being interested in Bollywood again fully – yeh toh star banegi,” said one fan.

However, a section of netizens is not convinced about Aneet’s acting skills.

“I’m going to go out on s limb and say Aneet has limited acting capabilities and should not be doing spearheading movies at this point. She needs to do a few more of the hero heroine films before she does a solo one. I like the girl before any of you come to attack me,” claimed one user.

Another netizen wrote, “What???? Kiara would have better choice for this. Aneet is new, movie will be doomed. Established and popular actresses are unable to bring audiences in theatre, i doubt Aneet. Aneet should focus on love, romantic movies as of now. But let’s see.”

Meanwhile, Aneet’s co-star Ahaan Panday has been signed by Yash Raj Films for an action film.