The series features a cast of popular actors frequently associated with the platform's drama-centric content: as Kundan (the protagonist) Manvi Chugh as Nisha Jinnie Jaaz as Shikha Abhinav Raja as Romli Ruks Khandagale as Shalini
Rikshawala (2023) is an Ullu Original web series that blends drama and romance with the platform's signature bold themes. Released in April 2023 across multiple parts, the series follows Kundan, a well-educated young man working as a rickshaw driver. Series Overview Rikshawala -2023- Ullu Original
The rickshaw is a symbol of the Indian streets. By placing the drama within this mundane setting, the creators make the story feel immediate and accessible. The series features a cast of popular actors
Neha is a departure from Ullu’s typical "vamp" figure. She is complex—trapped in a sexless marriage with a stockbroker husband who only cares about his portfolio. Her desire is not just physical; it is about control. She pays Raju not for sex, but for the illusion of being dangerous. Her downfall comes when she underestimates his intelligence. By placing the drama within this mundane setting,
Raju is the silent observer. With minimal dialogue, the actor relies on body language—sweat on the brow, clenched fists, weary eyes. His character arc attempts to show the transition from victim to opportunist. Initially hesitant, Raju learns to weaponize his vulnerability. By Episode 4, he is no longer just a driver; he is the gatekeeper of secrets. The show’s best moments are his close-ups while driving, listening to the women’s confessions in his rearview mirror.
For marketers, Rikshawala is a case study in how OTT platforms use taboo keywords to drive subscriptions. The title itself is a hook—it combines a mundane profession with a year (2023, implying "new") and a brand (Ullu Original), signaling both familiarity and freshness.
2023