In the popular anime Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba), one of the most exciting and heart-wrenching elements of the story is the battle between the Demon Slayer Corps and the powerful demons, particularly the Hashira, the elite members of the Corps. The Hashira are exceptional warriors, each with their own unique abilities, and they are central to the fight against the demons led by Muzan Kibutsuji. However, not all Hashira make it out alive in the intense battles, and this article will explore which Hashira survived the battles and what this means for the story.
The Demon Slayer series, adapted from Koyoharu Gotouge’s manga, has captured the hearts of fans around the world due to its stunning animation, emotional depth, and compelling characters. With the release of the Mugen Train movie and the Entertainment District arc, the stakes have been raised, and the survival of key characters has become a focal point of the plot. The Hashira are at the forefront of these battles, and their fates are crucial in the fight to end the demon menace.
In this article, we will discuss the key events and battles where the Hashira face life-and-death situations, examine which of them survive, and delve into how their survival or death impacts the story’s progression.
The Hashira: The Pillars of the Demon Slayer Corps
Before diving into which Hashira survived, let’s first understand who the Hashira are. The term “Hashira” refers to the nine highest-ranking members of the Demon Slayer Corps, each of whom specializes in a particular style of swordsmanship. These warriors are often considered the Corps’ most powerful members, each demonstrating extraordinary skill in battle and the use of Breathing Techniques to fight demons. The nine Hashira are:
- Giyu Tomioka (Water Hashira)
- Kanao Tsuyuri (Love Hashira)
- Shinobu Kocho (Insect Hashira)
- Mitsuri Kanroji (Love Hashira)
- Sanemi Shinazugawa (Wind Hashira)
- Gyomei Himejima (Stone Hashira)
- Muichiro Tokito (Mist Hashira)
- Tengen Uzui (Sound Hashira)
- Kanao Tsuyuri (Love Hashira)
Each Hashira has a tragic backstory, a deep sense of loyalty to the Corps, and a personal vendetta against the demons who took their loved ones. Their dedication is unparalleled, and they work tirelessly to protect humanity. However, the constant battle against powerful demons takes its toll, and not all of the Hashira manage to survive the series.
The Death of the Hashira
Throughout the series, the Hashira are faced with demons of unimaginable strength. Some of them die in the line of duty, sacrificing themselves to protect others and ensure the survival of their comrades. The battles that lead to their deaths are often brutal and emotional, and their legacies live on through their apprentices and the new generation of Demon Slayers.
1. Gyomei Himejima – The Stone Hashira
Gyomei Himejima is known as one of the strongest of the Hashira. A gentle giant with a tragic past, he is a deeply spiritual and dedicated warrior. His immense strength and mastery of the Stone Breathing techniques make him a formidable opponent. Unfortunately, during the final battle against Muzan Kibutsuji and his demons, Gyomei is fatally injured.
In the fight against Upper Rank 1, Kokushibo, Gyomei shows incredible courage and determination, fighting fiercely to protect his comrades. Despite his strength, he succumbs to Kokushibo’s brutal attacks. His death is a significant blow to the Demon Slayer Corps, but his sacrifice is not in vain. Gyomei’s legacy is honored by the other Hashira, and his sacrifice inspires the next generation to continue the fight against the demons.
2. Sanemi Shinazugawa – The Wind Hashira
Sanemi Shinazugawa is a fiery, impulsive character known for his fierce determination and unyielding spirit. His volatile personality often clashes with others, but he has a deep sense of duty and is willing to put everything on the line for the mission. Sanemi faces off against many powerful demons, and during the final battle, he engages in a fierce fight against Kokushibo.
Despite suffering severe injuries, Sanemi survives the battle. His survival is a testament to his resilience and sheer willpower. He becomes one of the few Hashira to survive the final battle, although his body is left permanently scarred. Sanemi’s survival allows him to continue guiding the next generation of Demon Slayers, offering his wisdom and strength to the fight against the demons.
3. Tengen Uzui – The Sound Hashira
Tengen Uzui is a flamboyant and over-the-top character, known for his incredible strength and his use of Sound Breathing techniques. He is a former shinobi who enjoys living life on his terms but is fiercely loyal to his comrades. Tengen faces off against Upper Rank 6 demons, Daki and Gyutaro, in the Entertainment District arc. During the battle, Tengen sustains serious injuries, including the loss of his left arm, and is on the brink of death.
However, Tengen does not die. With the help of Tanjiro Kamado, Nezuko Kamado, Zenitsu Agatsuma, and Inosuke Hashibira, Tengen defeats the two demons and survives the battle. His survival is a testament to his incredible stamina, strength, and the support of his allies.
4. Shinobu Kocho – The Insect Hashira
Shinobu Kocho is a highly intelligent and skilled fighter known for her expertise in poisons and her use of Insect Breathing techniques. Although Shinobu is physically weaker than some of the other Hashira, her knowledge and poison skills make her a valuable asset in battle. In the fight against Upper Rank 2, Doma, Shinobu faces off against him with determination, knowing that this may be her last battle.
Unfortunately, despite her courage and skill, Shinobu succumbs to Doma’s overwhelming power. Her death is a pivotal moment in the story, as it showcases the sacrifices that the Hashira are willing to make for the greater good. Shinobu’s death also serves as a catalyst for the growth of other characters, particularly Kanao Tsuyuri, who is inspired by Shinobu’s bravery and her desire to protect others.
5. Mitsuri Kanroji – The Love Hashira
Mitsuri Kanroji is one of the most beloved Hashira, known for her passionate and affectionate personality. Her Love Breathing techniques make her a graceful and powerful fighter, and she is deeply committed to protecting those she loves. Mitsuri faces off against Upper Rank 4, Hantengu, during the final battle.
Although Mitsuri fights valiantly, she ultimately succumbs to Hantengu’s attacks. Her death is deeply emotional, as Mitsuri has formed bonds with the other Hashira and has inspired many of the younger Demon Slayers. Mitsuri’s sacrifice serves as a poignant reminder of the high stakes in the fight against the demons, and her death leaves a lasting impact on her friends and fellow Demon Slayers.
6. Muichiro Tokito – The Mist Hashira
Muichiro Tokito is a young and enigmatic character, known for his mastery of Mist Breathing techniques. He is a brilliant fighter but has a somewhat aloof and detached personality. Muichiro’s growth throughout the series is significant, and he plays a key role in the battle against Upper Rank 5, Gyokko.
Muichiro dies during this battle, but his death is not in vain. His bravery and determination inspire the other Demon Slayers, and his contribution to the fight against the demons helps to bring the battle one step closer to victory.
Which Hashira Survived?
As we have seen, not all of the Hashira survive the grueling battles against the demons. Among the survivors are Giyu Tomioka, Sanemi Shinazugawa, and Tengen Uzui. Their survival is crucial in the ongoing battle to defeat Muzan Kibutsuji and his demons. These Hashira, along with the younger Demon Slayers, carry the torch forward in the fight for humanity’s survival.
However, the deaths of the other Hashira—Gyomei Himejima, Shinobu Kocho, Mitsuri Kanroji, and Muichiro Tokito—serve as powerful moments in the series, reminding the characters and viewers of the cost of war and the sacrifices that must be made. These deaths also push the surviving characters to grow and evolve, ensuring that the fight against the demons will continue until the very end.
Conclusion
The Hashira are not just the backbone of the Demon Slayer Corps; they are symbols of sacrifice, dedication, and courage. Their fates—whether they survive or die—are central to the narrative of Demon Slayer. The survival of Giyu Tomioka, Sanemi Shinazugawa, and Tengen Uzui ensures that the fight against Muzan Kibutsuji continues, while the deaths of the others serve as a reminder of the high stakes involved.
In the end, the Hashira’s sacrifices and victories shape the future of the Demon Slayer Corps and the world. Their legacies will live on through the new generation of Demon Slayers, who will continue to fight in their honor. The story of the Hashira is one of bravery, strength, and the relentless pursuit of justice, making Demon Slayer a tale that resonates with audiences worldwide.
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- Who Are the Pillars in Demon Slayer?
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- Who is the Second Strongest Hashira in Demon Slayer?