Netflix’s latest romantic comedy, The Royals, which premiered on May 9, 2025, has become a talking point for reasons both good and bad. While it set out to blend modern-day ambition with India’s royal heritage, the series has instead sparked a cultural controversy, drawing criticism for its surface-level storytelling and questionable portrayal of Indian royal families.
At its core, the show is visually stunning, packed with lavish sets, ornate costumes, and a star-studded cast. Ishaan Khatter and Bhumi Pednekar lead the story as modern royals grappling with legacy and love. Their onscreen chemistry has received a fair amount of praise, particularly Khatter’s charm and screen presence. However, beyond the visual gloss, many feel the show lacks emotional depth. Critics have pointed out that the narrative feels hollow, prioritising spectacle over storytelling. Characters aren’t given space to grow, and the plot often leans on cliché rather than nuance.
One of the most disappointing aspects for many viewers has been the role of veteran actress Zeenat Aman. Heavily promoted as a central figure in the series, her performance as the eccentric grandmother is limited to a few quirky moments that fail to leave a lasting impression. Many believe her inclusion was a publicity move, with her iconic presence used more as a lure than a meaningful contribution to the storyline.
But the backlash hasn’t just been about underwhelming character development. The show's portrayal of Indian royal families has been called out as inaccurate and even offensive. The narrative paints royal households as eccentric, financially broken, and caught in internal squabbles—an image that doesn’t sit well with many who are closely connected to India’s regal legacy. Anshu Khanna, founder of The Royal Fables—a platform that celebrates the heritage of India’s princely states—voiced her concerns in a widely shared Instagram post. She condemned the series for its “sweeping misrepresentation” of India’s royal families and reminded viewers that many of these families continue to preserve their culture, collaborate with the government, and contribute significantly to the nation’s economy and tourism.
Khanna’s sentiments echo a larger discomfort. Indian royals, far from being relics of the past, are often active custodians of heritage, involved in conservation, politics, art, and public service. The idea that they are auctioning off family heirlooms or locked in petty rivalries, as shown in The Royals, has been called both disrespectful and disconnected from reality. Critics argue that such portrayals reduce a rich and dignified legacy into a parody for entertainment.
Beyond the cultural critique, the series has also sparked controversy around its casting. While Khatter’s appeal remains intact, Bhumi Pednekar has found herself at the centre of cruel internet trolling. Online bullies have mocked her appearance—specifically her lips—while also questioning her performance in the series. The personal attacks have raised concerns about body shaming, toxic beauty standards, and the pressures faced by female actors in the public eye.
Adding fuel to the fire, The Royals has also drawn the ire of Rajput groups, with members of the Karni Sena publicly condemning the show for what they call “an insulting caricature” of royal traditions. Thakur communities across Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh have expressed outrage over the depiction of regal families as dysfunctional and desperate, stating it trivialises centuries of honour and sacrifice. Bhumi Pednekar, who plays a modern entrepreneur entering a royal household through marriage, is at the centre of this tension. Critics argue that her character’s bold presence and the portrayal of conflict between tradition and modernity comes off as disrespectful rather than progressive. With hashtags like #BoycottTheRoyals and #RespectRoyalHeritage beginning to trend, the controversy has grown into a full-blown cultural debate that’s drawing attention far beyond Netflix viewership.
Despite the backlash, The Royals has managed to generate significant buzz. There’s currently no official word on whether a second season is in the works, but given the attention—both positive and negative—Netflix may be tempted to continue the story. If that happens, the creators will need to tread carefully. They’ll have to reflect on the feedback and dig deeper into the cultural themes they’re exploring. Future episodes must move beyond glossy visuals and celebrity appeal, delivering a story that respects its inspiration and resonates more authentically with Indian audiences.
Whether or not The Royals returns for another season, one thing is certain: its debut has sparked an important conversation about representation, responsibility, and the delicate balance between entertainment and cultural sensitivity. Only time will tell if the series can evolve into something more than just a stylish controversy.