Riya Shibu, the breakout star of Malayalam hit Sarvam Maya, has shared the life‑changing advice she received from her co‑stars Nivin Pauly and Aju Varghese, as the film continues to dominate screens and box‑office charts. The actress, who plays a ghost with uncanny charm, says the guidance helped her navigate the sudden surge of fame and keep her grounded.
Background / Context
Released on December 25, Sarvam Maya has already completed 28 days in theatres, raking in close to ₹150 crore worldwide. Directed by Akhil Sathyan, the story follows a priest, Prabhendu, and an unconventional ghost, with Riya Shibu, Nivin Pauly, Aju Varghese and Janardhanan in the lead roles. The film’s blend of supernatural whimsy and emotional depth has struck a chord across generations, turning Riya Shibu into a household name.
In a crowded Malayalam film market, where new releases often struggle to find a foothold, Sarvam Maya stands out for its fresh narrative and strong performances. The film’s success has amplified the spotlight on its cast, especially the young actress who has been praised for her “adorable” portrayal of a ghost. Amid this whirlwind, Riya Shibu’s candid interview with the Indian Express offers insights into how seasoned actors can shape a newcomer’s career.
Key Developments
During the interview, Riya Shibu recounted the advice she received from Nivin Pauly and Aju Varghese. “They told me not every day will be positive and not every film will be received well. The only advice was to keep going, trust myself, and not lose who I am,” she said. The guidance, she added, was a reminder that success is fleeting and that authenticity must remain intact.
She also highlighted the distinct strengths of her co‑actors. Regarding Aju Varghese, Riya noted, “Aju has incredible range. He can deliver the same line in multiple ways—funny, serious, or both. Despite his experience, he never makes you feel small. He’s very open about mistakes and learning.”
When speaking about Nivin Pauly, she praised his relaxed demeanor and emotional intelligence. “Nivin is extremely relaxed. As a co‑actor, he gives you space, especially during emotional scenes. He helped me feel comfortable being vulnerable. There’s a quiet magic in how he conveys emotion, especially through his eyes,” Riya said.
These anecdotes underscore the collaborative spirit on set and the mentorship that can arise even among peers. The film’s director, Akhil Sathyan, has also commented on the chemistry between the actors, noting that the “bromance quotient” between Nivin and Aju added a layer of authenticity to the story.
Impact Analysis
For aspiring actors and students of film, Riya Shibu’s experience offers several takeaways:
- Resilience is key. The reminder that not every day will be positive is a realistic appraisal of the industry’s ups and downs.
- Authenticity matters. Staying true to oneself, even under pressure, can sustain a career longer than chasing fleeting trends.
- Mentorship can come from peers. Even seasoned actors like Nivin Pauly and Aju Varghese can provide guidance to newcomers.
- Collaboration enhances performance. The supportive environment on set contributed to the film’s success and the actors’ growth.
For the broader audience, the film’s success and the actors’ candidness reinforce the idea that Malayalam cinema is evolving. The industry is increasingly valuing nuanced storytelling and character depth, which resonates with younger viewers who seek authenticity in entertainment.
Expert Insights / Tips
Film scholars and industry insiders have weighed in on the significance of Riya Shibu’s advice. Dr. Ananya Menon, a professor of Film Studies at the University of Kerala, says, “The advice to ‘keep going, trust yourself, and not lose who I am’ is a timeless mantra that aligns with the psychological resilience models used in performing arts education.”
For students looking to break into the industry, here are practical steps inspired by the interview:
- Build a support network. Surround yourself with mentors and peers who can offer honest feedback.
- Practice self‑reflection. Regularly assess your strengths and areas for growth to maintain authenticity.
- Embrace versatility. Like Aju Varghese, develop the ability to adapt your performance to different tones and contexts.
- Stay grounded. Remember that fame is transient; focus on the craft rather than external validation.
Industry professionals also emphasize the importance of emotional intelligence on set. Nivin Pauly’s approach—providing space for vulnerability—highlights how a supportive environment can unlock deeper performances. Aspiring actors should seek roles that challenge them emotionally and allow them to explore a range of expressions.
Looking Ahead
With Sarvam Maya still in theatres and its box‑office trajectory pointing toward a record‑breaking run, the film’s momentum is likely to continue. Riya Shibu’s rising profile may open doors to larger projects, potentially across other South Indian film industries. Her experience underscores a broader trend: younger actors who combine talent with resilience are becoming the new face of Malayalam cinema.
For the industry, the film’s success signals a shift toward stories that blend supernatural elements with human emotion, a formula that could inspire future productions. The collaborative model showcased by the cast may become a blueprint for upcoming films, encouraging mentorship and peer support as integral parts of the creative process.
As the film’s run extends, audiences can expect more behind‑the‑scenes content, interviews, and perhaps a sequel that further explores the characters’ journeys. For students and emerging artists, the key lesson remains: authenticity, resilience, and a supportive network are the pillars of a sustainable career.
Reach out to us for personalized consultation based on your specific requirements.
