Rumours have been circulating that Aneet Padda has replaced Kiara Advani in the upcoming Madhubala biopic. As of now, these reports remain unconfirmed. A spokesperson from Yash Raj Films (YRF) called the news UNTRUE and BASELESS.
The confusion comes from Kiara Advani’s long-standing association with the project, reportedly produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and directed by Jasmeet K Reen. While media and fans often linked Advani to the role, sources clarified she was never officially signed.
Aneet Padda In Madhubala Biopic?
Aneet Padda’s name gained attention after her success in the 2025 blockbuster Saiyaara. A Filmfare report has claimed that she was signed as the lead for the Madhubala biopic. However, YRF Talent denied these claims, calling them unverified.
Fans quickly reacted on social media. A Reddit user wrote, “While her facial features work for the part, we haven’t seen her dance and honestly would love to see more experience in her repertoire before taking on such a role.” Another said, “Far better than Kiara,” while a third joked, “Wow kal Kiara aaj Aneet, atp I feel it’s SLB for being in the news.”
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The replacement story is similar to a confirmed casting shift in the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe, where Aneet was officially cast in Shakti Shalini (a role previously rumoured to feature Kiara Advani). Director Amar Kaushik clarified that Advani was never confirmed.
Madhubala Biopic Still In Development
The Madhubala biopic is still in active development. Filming is expected to start soon, but the official lead has not been announced. Filmmakers like Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Manish Malhotra are reportedly involved. Fans continue to debate whether Padda, Advani, or another actress such as Triptii Dimri would best portray the “Venus of Indian Cinema.”
After Saiyaara, Aneet Padda landed her second leading role in Shakti Shalini, part of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe. The first look of the film was released in theatres alongside Thamma, starring Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna.
The script for Shakti Shalini evolved into a coming-of-age story about a woman in her mid-20s. This led the makers to cast a fresher face like Aneet, as the role no longer suited the more mature character originally intended for Kiara Advani.
