Kiku Sharda’s role in Rise and Fall changed dramatically. He had been living in the basement, away from power and recognition. That day, the show’s ultimate ruler, Arbaz, was given a task: he had to pick three contenders from the “workers” to hear their reasons for why they wanted to become ruler. Arbaz picked Kiku, Anaya, and Akiriti. 

Akiriti rejected a deal from Arbaz, insisting she would climb on her own merits.   Meanwhile, Arbaz asked Kiku about his earlier comments: Kiku had said that Arbaz was becoming egoistic, thinking himself to be the mastermind of the game. 

After all three gave their speeches in the red room, Arbaz surprised everyone by choosing Kiku as the new ruler.   Kiku was happy, but also sad to leave the basement, because that was a place where he had lived more quietly, without the conflicts of the penthouse. 

When Kiku moved up to the penthouse, he received a warm welcome from others.   Despite the excitement, Kiku expressed that he had preferred staying in the basement, away from the tension and the politics unfolding in the penthouse. 

Thus, on that single episode, Kiku’s status changed: he went from a quieter existence to being crowned ruler. The shift was emotional and surprising, both for him and the other housemates.