# From "Delulu" Ghost to Kids' Favo

# From "Delulu" Ghost to Kids' Favorite: Riya Shibu's Whimsical Rise in Malayalam Cinema **Imagine kids across Kerala chanting "Delulu Chechi!" – that's the magical pull of Riya Shibu's breakout role in the blockbuster *Sarvam Maya*.[1]** At just 21, Riya Shibu has already conquered Malayalam cinema as both a powerhouse producer and a breakout actress. Best known for her role as the Gen Z ghost "Delulu" (aka Maya Mathew Manjooran) in Nivin Pauly's horror-comedy *Sarvam Maya*, she's redefined screen ghosts with a fresh, relatable twist – think sassy, modern spirit guiding a priest through chaos, blending laughs, VFX magic, and heartfelt vibes.[3][4][5] The film smashed records, grossing over ₹150 crore worldwide, marking Nivin Pauly's epic comeback and earning raves on OTT platforms like JioHotstar.[2][5][6] What started as a viral sensation has turned into everyday fandom: kids now mob her, dubbing her **"Delulu Chechi"** after her quirky, endearing ghost who went from "delulu" (delusional in Gen Z slang) to "solulu" (solution-oriented).[1][5] Director Akhil Sathyan originally eyed Preity Mukhundhan for the part but cast Riya instead, sparking a love track that felt anything but predictable and stole hearts.[2] Riya's authentic energy – encouraged by the director to "just be herself" – plus killer music, effects, and a cast including Aju Varghese and Janardhanan, made it a family hit.[3][6] Her trajectory is pure inspiration: producing hits like *Mumbaikar* (2023), *Thugs* (2023), *Mura* (2024), and *Veera Dheera Sooran* (2025) before acting debuts in *Cup* (2024) and *Sarvam Maya* (2025).[4] Now, buzz builds for her next in *Athiradi* (2026, post-production) as Swathi R Krishna, alongside Tovino Thomas, Basil Joseph, Zarin Shihab, and Darshana Rajendran – with fresh posters teasing more ensemble magic from makers like Basil Joseph Entertainment.[1][4]

Gen Z actress in vibrant Malayalam film style, evoking Riya Shibu's Delulu ghost energy

*Vibrant Gen Z energy capturing Riya Shibu's iconic Delulu vibe (Unsplash free stock image).*

Riya's story shows how one role can flip the script on self-doubt into superstar status – from emotional post-screening tears over crew goodbyes to becoming cinema's happiest haunt.[5] **Loved Riya's Delulu magic? Drop a comment: Who's your favorite Gen Z ghost moment or next *Athiradi* prediction? Share this post to spread the hype – let's get more eyes on this rising star!**
Citations
1.https://www.cinemaexpress.com/amp/story/malayalam/news/2026/Feb/09/what-role-sarvam-maya-fame-riya-shibu-plays-in-athiradi-makers-unveil-the-character-poster
2.https://www.123telugu.com/mnews/sarvam-maya-casting-twist-this-actress-was-the-first-choice-for-delulu-not-riya-shibu-hk.html
3.https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/riya-shibu-shares-sarvam-maya-gen-z-ghost-reshaped-on-screen-mythology-2852453-2026-01-16
4.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Riya_Shibu
5.https://www.hollywoodreporterindia.com/features/interviews/how-delulu-became-her-solulu-actor-influencer-riya-shibu-on-charming-nivin-pauly-and-movie-audiences-in-sarvam-maya
6.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xXvE6_8lOoM
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