Maharani Radhikaraje Gaekwad Critiques Netflix's 'The Royals' for Misrepresenting Modern Royals

Maharani Radhikaraje Gaekwad of Baroda has publicly criticized the Netflix series 'The Royals' for its portrayal of modern royals. In her Instagram post titled 'The Royal Ignore', she expressed disappointment over the show's depiction of royal women and the stereotypical representation of royals as indulgent and superficial. Her comments have sparked significant reactions on social media, highlighting the ongoing debate about the representation of royalty in contemporary media. The Maharani emphasized the important roles that royals play in Indian society and culture, challenging the narrative presented in the series.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 18, 2025, 17:41 IST

Maharani's Critique of 'The Royals'

Radhikaraje Gaekwad, the Maharani of Baroda, recently expressed her discontent with the portrayal of royals in the Netflix series The Royals, which debuted on May 9. Her post, titled The Royal Ignore, ignited a wave of reactions across social media platforms. The series has garnered mixed reviews, with some viewers praising its aesthetics while others have criticized its narrative. The backlash intensified when Maharani Gaekwad publicly condemned the show, asserting that it inaccurately depicts contemporary royals.

In her Instagram message, Maharani Gaekwad articulated her concerns about the series' representation of royal women and emphasized the significant roles that many royals continue to play in Indian culture and society.

She wrote, “The Royal Ignore. One would expect the royals of India, a community richly documented and photographed, to be portrayed more accurately in various fields, from politics to hospitality.”

She further lamented, “It seems that the portrayal in The Royals does not reflect this reality. Since 1947, we have been subjected to a politically charged narrative that depicts Rajas as indulgent and Ranis as superficial, which continues to shape public perception.”

Maharani Gaekwad criticized the depiction of Rajas as drunken and wasteful, and Ranis as merely adorned in chiffons and pearls, arguing that this stereotype has persisted since India's independence and is perpetuated by the Netflix series.

“India has produced remarkable statesmen, diplomats, conservationists, and entrepreneurs from royal backgrounds. Our forts and museums stand as the last bastions of India’s rich cultural history, yet decades later, we are still viewed with a mix of awe, ignorance, and disdain by our own country,” she stated.

Insights on Kattar's Character

About Kattar's Character In The Show

In a pointed remark about Ishaan Khatter’s role, Radhikaraje noted, “The young royals are reconnecting with their heritage, equipped with degrees from prestigious universities worldwide. They navigate both traditional and modern worlds, proudly speaking their native languages and donning their turbans, while striving to make their cultural legacy sustainable and relatable.”

Who Is Maharani Of Baroda?

The Maharani of Baroda is well-known for her philanthropic efforts, passion for art, and elegant sarees. Radhikaraje Gaekwad is a specialist in heritage conservation and advocates for textile revival. Her accomplishments have been recognized by various publications. She hails from the royal lineage of Wankaner State and is married to Maharaja Samarjitsinh Ranjitsinh Gaekwad. The Maharani resides in the magnificent Lakshmi Vilas Palace, which spans 700 acres and features 170 rooms, originally designed for royal use. The palace's estimated worth exceeds Rs 25,000 crore.