Means of Transport- Rickshaws

Rickshaws

Commemorative Postage Stamp Series

The evolution of transport in India reflects the country’s social and economic transformation. Among the most distinctive and widely recognized modes of urban mobility is the Rickshaw. As part of the Indian Transport commemorative postage stamp series, the Department of Posts highlighted the historical and cultural significance of rickshaws through a dedicated set of four stamps.

Introduction of Rickshaws in India

Rickshaws made their appearance in India around 1880, first seen in Shimla and later, about two decades afterward, in Kolkata. Initially introduced by Chinese traders for transporting goods, rickshaws soon became a practical and affordable means of passenger transport.

The earliest form was the hand-pulled rickshaw, a two- or three-wheeled passenger cart pulled by a single individual. The first recorded use of the term “rickshaw” dates back to 1887. For many rural migrants arriving in cities, pulling a rickshaw became a primary source of livelihood.

Evolution of Rickshaws

Over time, rickshaws evolved to meet the changing needs of society and advancements in technology:

• Hand-Pulled Rickshaw – The earliest and most traditional version, mainly used in cities like Kolkata.
• Cycle Rickshaw – Pedal-powered and capable of carrying one or more passengers, widely used across towns and cities.
• Auto Rickshaw – Motorized three-wheeler offering faster and more efficient transport, now a backbone of urban mobility.
• School Rickshaw – Modified cycle rickshaws used for transporting children to schools.

This transformation illustrates how rickshaws adapted from manual labour-based transport to mechanized public convenience.

Socio-Economic Importance

Rickshaws have long served as an affordable and accessible mode of transport for the common people. They provide:

• Employment opportunities for thousands
• Short-distance connectivity within crowded city lanes
• Affordable mobility for lower and middle-income groups

Even today, auto rickshaws are an integral part of India’s urban transport ecosystem.

Philatelic Tribute

The set of four commemorative postage stamps on Rickshaws, included in the larger 20-stamp Indian Transport series issued in five miniature sheets, beautifully portrays the different versions of this iconic vehicle.

Through this issue, India Post commemorates not only a mode of transport but also a symbol of resilience, livelihood, and grassroots mobility that has played a vital role in the nation’s transport history.