In an unparalleled move to capture the grandiosity and glamour of aristocratic life, akin to the British spectacle “The Crown,” Bollywood is gearing up for a spectacular web series titled “Royals.” The show promises to bring a slice of regal India to the small screen, with its storyline partly inspired by the lives of Rajasthan’s noble families. The upcoming rom-com series is helmed by producers Rangita and Ishita Pritish Nandy and marks the digital debut of Bhumi Pednekar, alongside the evergreen Zeenat Aman and the dynamic Ishaan Khatter.
The intersection of fiction and reality in “Royals” offers a unique look into the elaborate saga of royals in contemporary and bygone eras. Bhumi Pednekar emerges as the narrative’s protagonist playing a high-powered entrepreneur. Gleaning from the rich tapestry of Rajasthan’s history, the series picks from Jaipur to Mewar and Alsisar’s royal families, weaving a story replete with plush palaces, opulent parties, and the adrenaline-pumping thrill of polo matches.
Sources indicate that “Royals” oscillates between present-day settings and the vivid strokes of the past, charting a journey through time to portray an elaborate and fashionable portrayal of aristocracy. It’s a romantic comedy at heart but doesn’t shy away from depicting the style, politics, and truly fabulous lives that are inherent to Indian aristocrats. With the success of “Four More Shots Please” under their belts, the producers are adept at tapping into the pulse of the audience, looking to create a blend of stylish storytelling and emotional drama.
The opulence of the narrative required filming in real royal locations, which commenced with the first schedule in Rajasthan, starting on February 10. The star-studded cast including Pednekar, Khatter, Sakshi Tanwar, Chunky Panday, and Milind Soman graced the historical settings of City Palace and the Rambagh Palace. As this schedule concluded, production efforts shifted to replicate the interior grandeur of a palace within a studio in central Mumbai, where a month-long shoot ensued, followed by a brief schedule in the sun-kissed locales of Goa.
The ambition of the series mirrors its production—a colossal project that intends to rival international shows in scale and substance. Bringing this vision to life, Rangita has enlisted directors Nupur Asthana of “Four More Shots Please” fame and Priyanka Ghose, known for her work on “The Night Manager,” to take the directorial reins of the series.
“Royals” is not merely a show; it is an experience. It’s a celebration of the blend of old-world charm with the fervor of modern India. It is an exploration into the fictional realms of what life might be for those of noble birth in India, had the times and traditions of an ancient era sustained their grip into the present day. It encapsulates the fascination for the monarchy that seems universal, giving it a distinctly Indian flavor that is bound to resonate with a global audience.
The series also reflects the changing landscape of Indian storytelling wherein creators are pushing the envelope beyond the conventional formats and mediums, stepping into the digital domain with content that is both lavish and compelling. With “Royals,” viewers are slated to feast upon a visual banquet that showcases the intricate details of regal lives—right from their majestic homes and fashion to the complex interpersonal dynamics and their societal roles. It gives a glimpse into a world less trodden, a narrative delight that beckons from a past that is sumptuously alive within the frames of a contemporary series.
As “Royals” moves through its production phases, anticipation buzzes around its release. It’s set to be not just a portrayal of blue-blooded fantasy but also a slice-of-life series that celebrates love, laughter, and the eternal quest for happiness and power amidst the backdrop of palatial splendor. Keep an eye out for “Royals,” a series that promises to regale with its rich tapestry of stories, drawing viewers into the heart of India’s noble elegance.
