Meet Riya Shibu: Social media crowns Nivin Pauly's 'Sarvam Maya' actress ‘Delulu’ queen

Riya Shibu is a name people did not know much before 'Sarvam Maya'. Now, everyone is talking about her. She is just 21 years old, but she already feels like someone who has been here for a long time.

Nivin Pauly's 'Sarvam Maya' released during Christmas 2025, and the film slowly found love from audiences. While Nivin Pauly’s return made people happy, it was Riya who surprised many. She plays Maya, a cute and innocent ghost. Fans lovingly call her “Delulu.” Her smile, body language, and simple acting made people feel warm. Many viewers say she feels very natural on screen and never tries too hard.

From producer’s daughter to producer herself

Riya Shibu is the daughter of well-known producer Shibu Thameens. Movies are part of her life from childhood. But she did not just enjoy the fame. She worked early. At just 19, she became a producer. She backed Chiyaan Vikram’s 'Veera Dheera Sooran: Part 2'. The film did well, and people were surprised to see such a young girl handling big work. Actor Vikram later spoke about her during the trailer launch event, “She is a producer who truly blew me away… Just a young girl, standing there so calmly holding a camera… Riya, you have a long way to go.”

Acting journey that slowly grew

Riya’s first acting film was 'Cup' in 2024 with Mathew Thomas. The movie did not get much attention, and neither did her role. But 'Sarvam Maya' changed everything. Directed by Akhil Sathyan, the film mixes emotion, fun, and a little fantasy. Riya’s bond with Nivin Pauly’s character feels soft and sweet. Their scenes together are now being shared again and again online. People say her character stays in their mind even after the film ends.

Social media’s new favourite star

Social media is full of love for Riya Shibu. One fan wrote, “Show stealer of Sarvam Maya Riya Shibu.” Another said, “Today and everyday crushing on Delulu Riya shibu what an actress!” Someone else wrote, “Delulu Riya Shibu What an actress you are. Best written Malayalam film of 2025.”

Meanwhile, her brother Hridhu Haroon is best known for his magnificent acting in the critically acclaimed film 'All We Imagine as Light' which won the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival. Hridhu has appeared in several movies including 'Mura', and the recently release 'Dude'.

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