The Maddock Horror Comedy Universe continues to grow, and Diwali this year marked a major expansion with Thamma featuring Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui. While the film’s humour and cameo appearances grabbed attention, it was the surprise reveal before the show that sparked bigger conversations.
The makers officially announced Shakti Shalini, the sixth installment in the franchise, introducing Saiyaara star Aneet Padda in the title role. The announcement described her as “The protector. The destroyer. The mother of all,” confirming the film’s release date as December 24, 2026.
Shortly after the reveal, Ayushmann Khurrana spoke warmly about Aneet’s reaction to joining the universe. In a recent interaction, he shared that Aneet had actually been the first person to see the Thamma trailer at producer Dinesh Vijan’s office.
Ayushmann recalled how she immediately texted him, expressing how excited she was for the film and for her own journey in the franchise. He also highlighted that both he and Aneet come from small towns in Punjab, which makes her success especially meaningful to him.
Ayushmann had earlier welcomed her with a supportive Instagram note, encouraging her to keep chasing her dreams. Aneet responded by thanking him and calling the message “extra special,” considering she has admired him for years.