This weekend promises a diverse range of entertainment options on OTT platforms, catering to various tastes. From royal dramas to heartwarming village tales, here's a guide to what you can watch on Netflix and Prime Video.
Netflix's Royal Offering: The Royals
The Royals, a Hindi-language romantic comedy-drama series, premiered on Netflix on May 9, 2025. Directed by Priyanka Ghose and Nupur Asthana, the series features Bhumi Pednekar, Ishaan Khatter, and Sakshi Tanwar in leading roles. The series revolves around a Maharaja, Aviraaj Singh (played by Ishaan Khatter), and a self-made CEO, Sophia Shekhar (played by Bhumi Pednekar), who team up to transform a dilapidated haveli into a luxury B&B. As they work together, feelings develop, leading to drama, secrets, and tension.
The series also stars Zeenat Aman, Nora Fatehi, Vihaan Samat, Dino Morea, and Milind Soman. The trailer, released on April 22, 2025, showcases the clash between the entitled prince and the tech startup entrepreneur, exploring their opposing worlds in a contemporary fairy tale setting. Some viewers have drawn comparisons between Ishaan Khatter's vibe in the series and a young Shahid Kapoor.
Prime Video's Rural Charm: Gram Chikitsalay
For those seeking a story rooted in rural India, Gram Chikitsalay on Prime Video offers a heartwarming dramedy. The five-episode series, which premiered on May 9, 2025, is created by Deepak Kumar Mishra (known for Panchayat) and directed by Rahul Pandey. It stars Amol Parashar as Dr. Prabhat, a young and idealistic city doctor who takes charge of a neglected Primary Health Centre in a remote North Indian village.
Gram Chikitsalay explores Dr. Prabhat's journey as he attempts to bring much-needed changes to the village of Bhathkandi, where modern medicine is not readily embraced. He faces challenges such as skeptical villagers, missing medical supplies, and local political drama. The series highlights the importance of community, hope, and human connection. The cast includes Vinay Pathak, Akash Makhija, Akansha Ranjan Kapoor, Anandeshwar Dwivedi, and Garima Vikrant Singh. Some critics have noted the similarities between Gram Chikitsalay and Panchayat, suggesting that TVF might be falling into a formula after the success of the latter.
Other OTT Options
While The Royals and Gram Chikitsalay are highlights of this weekend's releases, other options are available. Netflix also offers The Diplomat, a political thriller. Apple TV+ has Long Way Home, a travelogue featuring Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman.
