The Christmas season of 2025 has delivered a massive cinematic winner with the Nivin Pauly-starrer 'Sarvam Maya' emerging as one of its biggest blockbusters. The film has achieved a remarkable milestone by crossing the coveted Rs. 100 crore mark in worldwide box office collections within its first ten days of release.
Director's Heartfelt Gratitude for Priya Prakash Varrier
In the wake of this roaring success, the film's writer-director, Akhil Sathyan, took a moment to express special appreciation for actress Priya Prakash Varrier, who made a brief but impactful cameo appearance. On Wednesday, January 7, Sathyan penned a warm note on social media, lauding her professionalism and contribution.
"Thanks beyond words, Priya! You said 'yes' to this cameo without a second thought, and it meant the world to us. Truly admire your commitment and professionalism, and thank you for being effortlessly gorgeous, in and out," the director wrote. He further revealed that her scene ranked among his personal favourites from the film, stating, "Easily one of my top five favourite scenes in #SarvamMaya."
Priya Prakash Varrier, who played a character referred to as 'Delulu', responded playfully to the post, commenting, "Akhil chetaaaa delulu is emo." Despite her limited screen time, her performance resonated strongly with the audience.
The Blockbuster Success and Major Film Deal
The phenomenal box office performance of 'Sarvam Maya' has triggered significant career momentum for its lead star. Following the film's success, Nivin Pauly has inked a landmark 100-crore multi-film deal with Panorama Studios. This agreement is reported to be the biggest film deal ever signed by an actor from the Malayalam film industry.
The film, which also stars Aju Varghese, Preity Mukhundhan, and Janardhanan in pivotal roles, has been praised for its authentic storytelling. The technical crew includes cinematographer Sharan Velayudhan, editors Akhil Sathyan and Rathin Radhakrishnan, and music composer Justin Prabhakaran.
Critical Acclaim and Defining a Genre
'Sarvam Maya' has not only won over audiences but also critics. The Times of India awarded the film a rating of 3.5 stars. Their review highlighted the film's place within a distinct, beloved genre of Malayalam cinema often associated with director Sathyan Anthikad—films known for their gentle pace, humour, and deep emotional core set against relatable backdrops.
The review noted, "Sarvam Maya is indulgent and lingering... These films take you to wide paddy fields, temple ponds, tharavadus (ancestral homes), and villages; to gentle emotions, familial love, and human follies. They grab your soul and leave you feeling wholesome." The film's self-awareness is subtly hinted at through posters of other similar-genre films displayed within a studio scene.
With its blend of critical praise, audience love, and monumental commercial success, 'Sarvam Maya' has firmly established itself as a defining hit, promising exciting new ventures for its team in the future.
