Nivin Pauly makes strong comeback with Sarvam Maya, film sees approx Rs 8 crore opening

Still from Sarvam Maya

Nivin Pauly's much-awaited film Sarvam Maya hit theatres on December 25, marking Christmas at the box office in Kerala. Touted as the actor's comeback film, it opened to largely positive reviews. The horror-comedy, directed by Akhil Sathyan, also stars Aju Varghese, bringing back the dynamic on-screen duo. The film has also posted encouraging numbers at the box office on Day 1.

Sarvam Maya day 1 collections

Trade analyst AB George shared that Sarvam Maya collected Rs 3.45 crore in Kerala on its opening day, which benefited from the festive holiday. The film has earned approximately Rs 8 crore worldwide, with the Gulf region contributing collections comparable to Kerala. Despite limited screens outside the state, the film has performed well in other parts of India. The film enjoyed a solo release in Kerala on Christmas. Ranveer Singh's Dhurandhar and Kartik Aaryan's Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri has led to the film receiving less screens in Mumbai and North India.

Nivin Pauly on his flop streak

Sarvam Maya has the potential to mark Nivin Pauly's grand comeback at the box office. Known for hits like Thattathin Marayathu, Om Shanti Oshana, Bangalore Days, and Premam, the actor has not delivered a major box office success in recent years. Apart from a memorable cameo in the 2024 film Varshangalkku Shesham, he has largely struggled commercially.

In a recent conversation with Pearle Maaney on her YouTube channel, Nivin reflected on his career and spoke about being advised to explore different genres. Speaking in Malayalam, he said, "There was a point in my life when I was confused. My friends and people close to me kept telling me that I shouldn't just do entertainer films and that, as an actor, I should improve like others."

He added, "They kept advising me that I wasn't showcasing my full potential and that I should do thrillers and other genres instead of only comedy films. They felt that if I continued doing only comedy, I would become forgettable. At that time, I also felt maybe they were right. But after I changed my film choices, the same people came back and told me how much they missed my comedy films. I was like, ‘Weren't you the ones who asked me to change?'"