Malayalam cinema closed 2025 on a comforting high with Sarvam Maya, a film that feels less like a spectacle and more like a warm conversation. Being hailed as a major comeback vehicle for Nivin Pauly, the film marks his return to the charming, relatable “guy-next-door” persona that audiences have long cherished.

Directed by Akhil Sathyan, son of veteran filmmaker Sathyan Anthikad, Sarvam Maya is not a conventional horror-comedy. Instead, it’s a supernatural feel-good drama that blends fantasy, humor, and emotion in gentle, old-school fashion.

Overview

  • Genre: Fantasy / Comedy / Drama

  • Release Date: December 25, 2025 (Theatrical)

  • Cast: Nivin Pauly, Riya Shibu, Aju Varghese, Janardhanan, Preity Mukhundhan

  • Average Rating: ⭐ 3.5 / 5

The Story

At the heart of the film is Prabhendu (Nivin Pauly), a struggling musician born into a traditional family of priests. Reluctantly setting aside his musical dreams, he takes up his hereditary role of performing pujas to survive. Life takes an unexpected—and whimsical—turn when he encounters Delulu, a “Gen Z” ghost portrayed by Riya Shibu.

Delulu is not your typical cinematic spirit. She’s confused, terrified of her own supernatural abilities, and has no memory of her past. What follows is an unusual friendship between a lost man and a lost soul, as they help each other confront unresolved emotional baggage and find closure in their own ways.

What Works

Nivin Pauly’s Vintage Charm:
This is easily one of Nivin Pauly’s most effortless performances in recent years. His comic timing, vulnerability, and natural screen presence anchor the film beautifully.

Riya Shibu’s Delightful Debut:
As Delulu, Riya Shibu is a revelation. Her playful energy, Gen Z slang, and expressive performance make the ghost character endearing rather than spooky.

Nivin–Aju Chemistry:
The reunion of Nivin Pauly and Aju Varghese delivers genuine laugh-out-loud moments, evoking nostalgia for fans of their early collaborations.

Simple, Heartfelt Storytelling:
Staying true to the Anthikad legacy, the film focuses on small human emotions, organic humor, and warmth—without jump scares or forced melodrama.

What Could Be Better

Pacing in the Second Half:
The film slightly drags in parts, especially during the Mumbai segment, which feels longer than necessary.

Predictable Climax:
While emotionally sound, the final act leans into familiar feel-good clichés and feels a bit rushed.

Underused Supporting Characters:
Some interesting characters, including Prabhendu’s elder brother and the psychiatrist, could have been explored in greater depth.

OTT Release Update

As of early January 2026, Sarvam Maya continues its strong theatrical run, grossing over ₹75 crore worldwide.

  • Streaming Partner: JioHotstar (reported record digital rights deal)

  • Expected OTT Release: Mid-February 2026 (around 45 days post theatrical release)

Final Verdict

If you enjoy breezy, emotionally rich films like Pachuvum Athbutha Vilakkum or classic Sathyan Anthikad dramas, Sarvam Maya is an easy recommendation. It’s not groundbreaking—but it doesn’t try to be. Instead, it succeeds by being warm, sincere, and anchored by a genuinely lovable Nivin Pauly performance.

A comforting watch that reminds us why we fell in love with this brand of Malayalam cinema in the first place.