The Royals Season 1 (2025) is a refreshing blend of comedy and drama that dives into the extravagant yet chaotic world of Indian royalty. Directed by Priyanka Ghose and Nupur Asthana, this Netflix original web series introduces a whimsical tale of modern-day royals struggling with legacy, responsibility, and unexpected love.
With a sharp, witty script by Vishnu Sinha and Iti Agarwal, and backed by producers Utsab Nath, Ishita Pritish Nandy, and Rangita Pritish Nandy, "The Royals" is a show that beautifully captures the essence of tradition clashing with modernity. Released on 9 May 2025, it’s become one of the most talked-about series on OTT platforms.
The Royals Season 1 Web Series Overview
- Title: The Royals Season 1 (2025)
- Genre: Comedy, Drama
- Directors: Priyanka Ghose, Nupur Asthana
- Writers: Vishnu Sinha, Iti Agarwal
- Producers: Utsab Nath, Ishita Pritish Nandy, Rangita Pritish Nandy
- OTT Platform: Netflix
- Release Date: 9 May 2025
- Runtime: 5 hours 53 minutes
- Main Cast: Ishaan Khatter, Bhumi Pednekar, Zeenat Aman
The Royals 2025 Story: A Tale of Legacy, Love, and Laughter
Set in the fictional Indian princely state of Morpur, the story follows Aviraaj Singh (played by Ishaan Khatter), a reluctant royal who dreams of a fashion career in New York. When his father, the Maharaja, passes away, Aviraaj is thrust into the limelight as the next Maharaja. However, the glamour of the crown is overshadowed by the reality of a cash-strapped royal household.
Key Plot Points:
- Aviraaj’s Dilemma: He must choose between the freedom of his modeling dreams or the burdens of royalty.
- Sophia Shekhar’s Ambition: Played by Bhumi Pednekar, she is a successful CEO running a luxury hospitality startup called Royal B&B, bringing tourists to stay in heritage palaces.
- A Chance Meeting: Their paths cross in Sri Lanka, sparking an unexpected romance fueled by banter, culture clash, and destiny.
- Family Secrets: Aviraaj’s grandmother Maji Saheba (portrayed by Zeenat Aman) adds a comical yet poignant touch, blending tradition with rebellion.
This romantic comedy-drama explores royal responsibility, family secrets, and a heartfelt love story that blossoms amid chaos.
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The Royals Season 1 Cast & Character Guide
Here’s a detailed look at the main characters and the actors who brought them to life:
1. Ishaan Khatter as Prince Aviraaj Singh
The heartthrob of Morpur, Aviraaj is a charming, spoiled, yet internally conflicted prince. Ishaan delivers a layered performance balancing humor, reluctance, and romantic vulnerability.
2. Bhumi Pednekar as Sophia Shekhar
Sophia is an independent, driven entrepreneur. With her startup Royal B&B, she is focused on success but ends up getting entangled in royal drama and romance.
3. Zeenat Aman as Maji Saheba
Zeenat Aman’s return to the screen is nothing short of iconic. As the eccentric weed-loving grandmother, she infuses every scene with nostalgic charm and unconventional wisdom.
Supporting Cast:
- Sikandar Kher as the cunning royal cousin seeking control.
- Rajit Kapur as the loyal family advisor.
- Radhika Apte as a royal historian helping Sophia with the palace renovation.
Why The Royals 2025 is a Must-Watch
1. Unique Concept
Blending royalty with modern entrepreneurial challenges is a novel premise that stands out in the Indian OTT landscape.
2. Witty Writing & Real Emotions
Writers Vishnu Sinha and Iti Agarwal bring depth through humor, sarcasm, and unexpected emotional beats.
3. Gorgeous Visuals
The picturesque locales of Sri Lanka and Rajasthan offer stunning backdrops that elevate the viewing experience.
4. Nostalgia Meets Modernity
The Royals seamlessly merges ancient royal customs with millennial confusion, creating a perfect mix of old and new.
The Royals Season 1 Web Series Review: Critics & Audience Verdict
Critics’ Take:
- Hindustan Times praised the show’s visual grandeur and Ishaan Khatter’s charismatic performance.
- The Indian Express highlighted the script’s smart dialogues and Zeenat Aman’s memorable comeback.
- Film Companion applauded the series for addressing issues like royal heritage in modern India.
Audience Reactions:
On social media, fans are calling it:
- “India’s answer to The Crown, but funnier and hotter!”
- “A binge-worthy show with stunning visuals and unexpected chemistry!”
The Royals vs. Other Indian OTT Series
| Feature | The Royals (2025) | Made in Heaven | The Crown (UK) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Genre | Comedy, Drama | Drama | Historical Drama |
| Theme | Modern Indian royalty | High-society weddings | British monarchy |
| Humor Level | High | Moderate | Low |
| Romance | Key subplot | Multiple arcs | Formalized |
| Setting | India & Sri Lanka | Delhi | UK |
The Royals sets itself apart by using humor as a central narrative device in a royal context — a rarity in Indian web series.
Behind the Scenes: Making of The Royals 2025
Production Insights:
- Shot across real palaces in Rajasthan and coastal towns of Sri Lanka.
- Lavish costume design inspired by vintage royal attire blended with modern fashion.
- The creators aimed to depict authentic royal lifestyles while adding relatable millennial struggles.
Challenges Faced:
- Budget constraints while recreating grand royal settings.
- Shooting delays due to monsoon season in Sri Lanka.
- Coordinating multiple language dubs for a global Netflix release.
The Royals Season 1: Episode-Wise Breakdown
Episode 1: The Reluctant Prince
Aviraaj returns from New York to attend his father’s funeral and is shocked to discover the royal family is broke.
Episode 2: Royal B&B
Sophia visits Morpur for her new business venture, unknowingly landing at Aviraaj’s estate.
Episode 3: A Royal Mess
A tourism pitch goes wrong, leading to hilarious misunderstandings between Sophia and the royals.
Episode 4: Past & Promises
A flashback reveals Maji Saheba’s youthful rebellion and Aviraaj’s childhood dreams.
Episode 5: Love in Sri Lanka
Aviraaj and Sophia escape the pressures of Morpur and explore their chemistry on a trip.
Episode 6: The Coronation Dilemma
Family politics and media pressure mount as Aviraaj prepares for his official coronation.
Episode 7: All That Glitters
Sophia’s startup hits a snag due to royal controversies, testing her relationship with Aviraaj.
Episode 8: Maji’s Last Laugh
Zeenat Aman steals the spotlight as she saves the family estate with an unconventional idea.
Final Verdict: Is The Royals Worth Watching?
Absolutely! Whether you're a fan of rom-coms, royal tales, or simply looking for something light-hearted yet meaningful, The Royals Season 1 offers it all. The show balances entertainment with socio-cultural commentary — touching on financial independence, legacy pressure, and the reinvention of traditions.
The Royals Season 2: Is It Coming?
As of May 2025, Netflix has not officially announced The Royals Season 2, but given the rave reviews and trending hashtags like #RoyalRomance and #ReturnOfThePrince, a renewal seems highly likely.
Fans are already speculating:
- Will Sophia accept a royal life?
- Can Aviraaj modernize Morpur?
- Will Maji Saheba start a podcast?
How to Watch The Royals (2025)
You can stream all 8 episodes of The Royals Season 1 on Netflix. The show is available in Hindi with English subtitles, and dubbed versions in Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam are expected soon.
Conclusion: The Royals Season 1 Is the Crown Jewel of Indian OTT Comedy-Drama
In the crowded world of Indian web series, The Royals stands tall with its unique storyline, delightful characters, and royal charm. It’s a perfect pick for viewers who want humor, heart, and heritage wrapped in one stunning package.
Don’t miss this royal ride — watch The Royals now on Netflix!