Crowns, chaos and chemistry: 'The Royals' reigns with romance and royal rifts

IOL News

4 days ago

Ishan Khattar plays Aviraaj Singh in "The Royals", currently streaming on Netflix.
Image: Instagram.
Netflix's latest offering, "The Royals", takes viewers on a captivating journey through the ornate corridors of an imaginary princely state, Morpiur.
Serving up a visually stunning feast of gold-leafed halls and vibrant traditions, this show combines Indian heritage with the universal allure of romantic drama.
The premise is intriguing: a nearly bankrupt royal family, led by Ishan Khattar and his co-stars, grapples for survival when a hospitality company, helmed by the determined Sofia (Bhumi Pednekar), offers them a lifeline in the form of a Royal B&B.
This innovative concept invites commoners to mingle with the royals, promising an experience that dances between fantasy and reality.
It's a clever twist that is ripe for conflict and sparks, which serves as the foundation of the plot.
Sofia is introduced as a dynamic and quick-witted CEO, ready to challenge the status quo.
From her brisk horseback escapes to confrontations steeped in wit and determination, she embodies a fresh sensibility.
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The cast of Netflix's "The Royals".
Image: Instagram.
Her rivalry with Aviraaj Singh, a polo-playing prince who expertly blends charm with entitlement, gradually morphs into a romantic connection against a backdrop of playful banter and cautious partnership.
The character dynamics, especially between Sofia and Aviraaj, follow the classic enemies-to-lovers trope.
However, it's the supporting characters that enrich the story, with Aviraaj's brother, Digvijay 'Diggy' Singh, emerging as a relatable character.
He finds solace in culinary creation, while their sister, Divyaranjani 'Jinnie', navigates her path toward self-acceptance.
The series also dares to explore progressive themes surrounding sexual identity and gender roles.
These inclusive narratives allow for moments of colour and risk in what could have been a purely traditional royal saga.
The representation of LGBTQ+ characters challenging societal norms also injects a refreshing vibrancy into the plot.
Nevertheless, despite its charming ensemble and heartwarming moments, "The Royals" struggles at times with a lack of emotional depth and character development.
As episodes progress, the show teeters on the edge of meaningful engagement but often retreats to a surface-level experience of romantic escapism.
Ishan Khattar and Bhumi Pednekar as Aviraaj and Sofia in a scene from "The Royals.
Image: Instagram.
"The Royals" delivers a binge-worthy escape into a world of glittering palace life, complete with engaging romance and charming side stories.
It successfully entertains and enchants, even as it grapples with deeper themes and narratives.
If you're seeking a captivating mix of palace glamour and light-hearted drama, this series is a worthy addition to your watchlist, sure to sweep you off your feet, if only for a moment.