Sarvam Maya, starring Nivin Pauly, was released in theaters on December 25, 2025, on the occasion of Christmas. As the film opened to positive reviews, co-lead actress Rhea Shibu became the talk of the town, especially for her cute moments in the film.
Let’s take a look at the producer-turned-content creator-turned-actress and her journey in cinema so far.
Who is Riya Shibu?
Rhea Shibu is the daughter of acclaimed filmmaker Shibu Thameens. He is the owner of Thamines Films, a production company based in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, as well as theaters and a distribution company that primarily screens Malayalam and Tamil films.
His father has been involved in several ventures in South Indian cinema, including Dulquer Salmaan’s ABCD: American-Born Confused Desi, Chiyaan Vikram’s Iru Mugan and Sami Square, Thalapathy Vijay’s Puli, and more. Thamins also owns movie theaters and has distributed major blockbusters like RRR and Kamal Haasan’s Vikram.
Earlier, Rhea made her debut as a producer by joining her father’s company and backing Vikram-starrer Veera Dheera Sooran: Part 2.
According to reports, Rhea was born on 22 September 2004, making her 21 years old in 2025. Interestingly, her elder brother Hriday Aaron is also an actor, known for films like All We Imagine as Light, Maine Pyar Kiya, Bad Girl and Pradeep Ranganathan-Mamita Baiju’s Dude.
Before Sarvam Maya, Rhea made her acting debut in Malayalam cinema with the sports drama Cup. The 2024 film directed by Sanju V. Samuel stars Matthew Thomas and Basil Joseph in the lead roles.
Apart from films, Rhea is especially popular among the Gen Z audience due to her huge social media following. Before moving into production, she went viral on Instagram for her transition videos and humorous content.
Now, with Sarvam Maya, the actress has really become the talk of the town and will next play the co-lead role in the film Athiradi starring Tovino Thomas, Vineeth Sreenivasan and Basil Joseph.
More information about Sarvam Maya
Sarvam Maya is a fantasy horror romantic comedy starring Nivin Pauly and directed by Akhil Sathyan. The film tells the story of Prabhendhu Namboothiri, a young priest living in his ancestral home. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she encounters a lovable and “Delulu” ghost, who changes her understanding of life through a series of comical events.
Also read: Jana Nayagan single: Thalapathy Vijay showcases his sweet mood with touching father-daughter song on December 26
