The Royals: Why The Internet is Loving Netflix`s Latest Royally Chaotic Romance
Updated on: 12 May, 2025 04:07 PM IST |Amruta Karulkar

The Royals
Royalty seems to be reigning supreme on streaming platforms, and Netflix`s latest offering, The Royals, is adding a unique Indian flavour to the genre. Featuring a star-studded cast including Ishaan Khatter, Bhumi Pednekar, Zeenat Aman, Dino Morea, and Chunky Panday, this series is generating quite the buzz. Directed by Priyanka Ghose and Nupur Asthana, penned by Neha Veena Sharma, and brought to life by Pritish Nandy Communications under creators Rangita Pritish Nandy and Ishita Pritish Nandy, The Royals invites viewers into a world where tradition clashes hilariously with modern-day chaos.
Bhumi Pednekar noted in a PTI interview that The Royals feels like a blend, particularly connecting with the family dynamics seen in Schitt`s Creek. She stated, “It has a bit more connection with Schitt’s Creek because there’s the royal family and the dysfunctionality and everything that happens with them.” However, Ishaan Khatter quickly pointed out a key difference: “But what separates it from ‘Bridgerton’ is the modernity of it.”
The series centres around the flamboyant royals of Morpur, whose lives, steeped in "royal pratha" (tradition), revolve around lavish displays of wealth – expensive artefacts, exotic wines, and heirloom jewels. Leading the pack is Aviraaj Singh (Ishaan Khatter), a polo-playing, modern-day prince more interested in charming ladies than managing the crumbling family haveli.
Disaster strikes after the Maharaja`s (Milind Soman) death reveals the family is drowning in debt. This prompts Aviraaj`s wonderfully pragmatic question about the existence of any "saastha pratha" (cheap tradition). Enter Aam Kumari Sophia Kanmani Shekhar (Bhumi Pednekar), a sharp, ambitious CEO hired by the sensible Digvijay Singh (Vihaan Samat) to rescue the family from financial ruin. Her plan? Transform the dilapidated palace into a luxury B&B, forcing the royals to confront reality.
Also Read: Zeenat Aman Recalls Romancing Amitabh Bachchan In Titillating White Outfit
While the characterisations are engaging and the concept is fresh, some viewers might find the script occasionally losing steam. However, The Royals remains a fun, heartfelt, and often hilarious watch, especially if you`re looking for delightful entertainment that blends royal intrigue with contemporary issues and a healthy dose of romance and rivalry.
Also Read: Veteran Actress Zeenat Aman Opens Up About Working with Superstar Rajesh Khanna
A Desi Blend of Popular Hits?
Comparisons to popular shows like Bridgerton and Schitt`s Creek have inevitably surfaced, and the lead actors themselves acknowledge the similarities while also highlighting what makes their show distinct.Bhumi Pednekar noted in a PTI interview that The Royals feels like a blend, particularly connecting with the family dynamics seen in Schitt`s Creek. She stated, “It has a bit more connection with Schitt’s Creek because there’s the royal family and the dysfunctionality and everything that happens with them.” However, Ishaan Khatter quickly pointed out a key difference: “But what separates it from ‘Bridgerton’ is the modernity of it.”
The series centres around the flamboyant royals of Morpur, whose lives, steeped in "royal pratha" (tradition), revolve around lavish displays of wealth – expensive artefacts, exotic wines, and heirloom jewels. Leading the pack is Aviraaj Singh (Ishaan Khatter), a polo-playing, modern-day prince more interested in charming ladies than managing the crumbling family haveli.
Disaster strikes after the Maharaja`s (Milind Soman) death reveals the family is drowning in debt. This prompts Aviraaj`s wonderfully pragmatic question about the existence of any "saastha pratha" (cheap tradition). Enter Aam Kumari Sophia Kanmani Shekhar (Bhumi Pednekar), a sharp, ambitious CEO hired by the sensible Digvijay Singh (Vihaan Samat) to rescue the family from financial ruin. Her plan? Transform the dilapidated palace into a luxury B&B, forcing the royals to confront reality.
Also Read: Zeenat Aman Recalls Romancing Amitabh Bachchan In Titillating White Outfit
More Than Just a Pretty Picture?
Visually, The Royals is undeniably stunning, showcasing beautiful locations, exquisite costumes, and a glamorous cast, including the timeless Zeenat Aman and stylish Dino Morea. It`s a feast for the eyes, offering more than just superficial beauty. The show tackles themes like the financial fragility beneath the royal facade and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals within traditional structures and features a strong female lead taking charge.While the characterisations are engaging and the concept is fresh, some viewers might find the script occasionally losing steam. However, The Royals remains a fun, heartfelt, and often hilarious watch, especially if you`re looking for delightful entertainment that blends royal intrigue with contemporary issues and a healthy dose of romance and rivalry.
Also Read: Veteran Actress Zeenat Aman Opens Up About Working with Superstar Rajesh Khanna
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