The highly anticipated series The Royals premiered on Netflix on May 9, 2025, showcasing a captivating blend of drama, romance, and satire. Starring Ishaan Khatter as Maharaj Aviraaj Singh Morpur and Bhumi Pednekar as Sophia Kanmani Shekhar, the show dives into the complexities of royal life in modern India.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Rajasthan, The Royals invites viewers into a world filled with beautiful palaces, traditional outfits, and vintage cars, all while tackling serious issues like financial struggles, family pressures, and the clash between tradition and modernity. The series consists of eight episodes that promise to keep audiences entertained with a mix of humor and heartfelt moments.
In a candid interview, Ishaan Khatter opened up about his preparation for the physically demanding horse-riding scenes that are integral to the series. He described the training as “glute-smashing,” emphasizing the intensity of the experience. Vihaan Samat, who plays Aviraaj’s younger brother Digvijay Singh Morpur, shared his enthusiasm for the preparation, stating, “Honestly, it was one of my most favorite parts about this show.” He recounted how the cast spent two months at the Mahalakshmi Race Course, learning to be sensitive to the movements of horses and perfecting their skills under the guidance of Mitesh, their instructor.
“We were going around in the mud pit, finding inner control and doing the same motion again and again,” Samat recalled. “It’s like when your parents used to drop you off to some swimming class—you were just there, focused, and nothing else mattered.” The camaraderie among the cast members was palpable, with Ishaan adding, “We got to learn a skill and make some friends, some horsey friends.”
While Bhumi Pednekar’s horse-riding scenes didn’t make the final cut, she expressed her enjoyment of the learning process, highlighting the fun she had during the training. This shared experience among the cast members contributed to the overall chemistry that translates well on screen.
The storyline of The Royals revolves around Aviraaj Singh, a charming but reluctant prince who is more interested in polo than in managing royal duties. His life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Sophia, a sharp and confident CEO brought in to revitalize the family’s crumbling palace, Motibagh, by transforming it into a luxury heritage hotel. The juxtaposition of their personalities—Aviraaj’s laid-back attitude versus Sophia’s determined nature—sets the stage for a compelling enemies-to-lovers narrative.
As their relationship evolves from clashes and misunderstandings to a passionate romance, the series introduces a rich tapestry of characters that contribute to the drama. Maharani Padmaja, played by Sakshi Tanwar, is a widow striving to protect her family’s legacy while concealing her own secrets. Vihaan Samat’s Digvijay stands out with a sincere performance, embodying the voice of reason amidst the chaos of royal life.
Supporting characters, including the stylish yet spoiled Rajkumari Jinnie, portrayed by Kavya Trehan, add depth and humor to the story. The sibling dynamics between Aviraaj, Digvijay, and Jinnie not only provide comic relief but also highlight the complexities of family relationships in a royal setting.
As a notable addition to the cast, Zeenat Aman makes a royal return in a special appearance, lending her elegance to the series. The ensemble also features Chunky Panday as a washed-up filmmaker and a host of other talented actors, including Dino Morea, Udit Arora, Lisa Mishra, Luke Kenny, Sumukhi Suresh, and Nora Fatehi, who each bring their unique flair to the production.
Visually, The Royals is a feast for the eyes. Shot in the picturesque landscapes of Rajasthan, the series is filled with opulent settings that capture the essence of royal heritage. Each frame is designed to be Instagram-worthy, showcasing the glamour and beauty of the royal lifestyle.
However, beneath the surface of this visually stunning series lies a narrative that doesn’t shy away from addressing significant societal issues. The show explores themes such as financial instability, the pressure to conform to family expectations, and the ongoing struggle between tradition and modern life. It even touches on gender and sexuality in a manner that feels both relevant and sensitive.
Despite its strengths, The Royals is not without its flaws. Critics have pointed out that the series juggles too many subplots, with some characters introduced without adequate background or explanation. The pacing can feel rushed, particularly in the second half of the season, leading to moments where misunderstandings between Aviraaj and Sophia become repetitive.
Nevertheless, the show remains committed to its primary objective: to entertain. It successfully balances serious themes with light-hearted humor and romance, ensuring that it never takes itself too seriously. The writing, while occasionally needing refinement, features clever and funny lines that resonate with viewers.
In summary, The Royals may not be a flawless masterpiece, but it is undoubtedly a binge-worthy series for those seeking a mix of drama, romance, and royal flair. With a talented cast, strong female characters, and a modern twist on the concept of royalty, the show is poised to capture the hearts of audiences around the globe. Whether you’re drawn in by the glamorous visuals or the engaging storylines, The Royals offers enough substance to keep viewers coming back for more.
