Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba is one of the most popular anime series in recent years. Based on the manga by Koyoharu Gotouge, the anime has captivated audiences with its thrilling battles, emotional moments, and well-developed characters. One of the most iconic elements of the series is the Hashira, the elite warriors who serve as the main fighting force against the demons. However, throughout the series, several of these Hashira meet tragic ends, leaving fans heartbroken. In this article, we will explore which Hashira died in Demon Slayer, how they met their fates, and the impact of their deaths on the story and other characters.
Who Are the Hashira?
Before diving into the deaths of the Hashira, it’s important to understand who they are. The Hashira, also known as the Pillars, are the highest-ranking members of the Demon Slayer Corps. They are the most powerful swordsmen and fighters, each specializing in one of the five main elements (water, fire, stone, wind, love, etc.). There are nine Hashira in total, and they are led by the Corps’ leader, Kagaya Ubuyashiki.
Each Hashira has unique abilities and fighting styles, making them key players in the fight against demons. Throughout the series, these warriors prove their worth time and again, often facing off against powerful demons and sacrificing their lives for the sake of others. However, not all of them survive the long battle with demons.
The Deaths of the Hashira
1. Giyu Tomioka – The Water Hashira
Giyu Tomioka is one of the main characters in Demon Slayer. He is the Water Hashira, known for his calm demeanor and mastery over the Water Breathing techniques. Giyu is one of the first Hashira that Tanjiro Kamado meets and serves as his mentor throughout the series. However, Giyu’s fate is less tragic than some other Hashira.
Giyu is not among the Hashira who die in the series. While he is seriously injured during the fight against the Upper Rank demons, he survives the battle and continues to play a crucial role in the fight against the demons. His survival allows him to continue to guide Tanjiro and the others, making him one of the key characters who helps bring down Muzan Kibutsuji, the Demon King.
2. Kanao Tsuyuri – The Flower Hashira
Kanao Tsuyuri is a lesser-known Hashira, but she plays an important role in the story. As the Flower Hashira, Kanao is skilled in using the Flower Breathing techniques. However, Kanao’s story is tragic, as she is one of the Hashira who perishes during the events of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba.
Kanao meets her death in the battle against Upper Rank demons. Despite her impressive abilities, she falls to a powerful demon and ultimately succumbs to her wounds. Her death is a significant moment in the series, as it shows the devastating cost of the war against demons.
3. Shinobu Kocho – The Insect Hashira
Shinobu Kocho, the Insect Hashira, is one of the most beloved characters in Demon Slayer. Known for her intelligence, quick thinking, and unique fighting style that involves using poison, Shinobu plays a vital role in the fight against demons. Her death is one of the most emotional moments in the series.
Shinobu dies in an intense battle against Upper Rank Two demon, Doma. In her final fight, she uses her poison to injure Doma severely, but she is ultimately killed in the process. Her death serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by the Demon Slayer Corps in their war against the demons. Shinobu’s loss deeply impacts her younger sister, Kanao, and the rest of the Corps.
4. Mitsuri Kanroji – The Love Hashira
Mitsuri Kanroji is known as the Love Hashira and is one of the most charismatic and compassionate characters in Demon Slayer. Mitsuri has a gentle personality, and her fighting style is rooted in her intense emotions. Unfortunately, Mitsuri’s fate is sealed during the battle against Muzan Kibutsuji’s forces.
Mitsuri dies in the final battle against the demons, succumbing to fatal injuries while protecting her comrades. Her death is heartbreaking, as she had fought so hard for the sake of humanity and had dreams of living a peaceful life. Her loss is particularly tragic because of her kind and loving nature, which is revealed more in her final moments.
5. Kyojuro Rengoku – The Flame Hashira
Kyojuro Rengoku, the Flame Hashira, is one of the most beloved Hashira in Demon Slayer. He is known for his fiery passion, indomitable spirit, and mastery over the Flame Breathing techniques. Rengoku’s death is a pivotal moment in the series, and it is one of the most emotional deaths in the entire show.
Rengoku dies during the Mugen Train arc, where he faces off against the Upper Rank Three demon, Akaza. In a fierce battle, Rengoku gives his all to protect the passengers aboard the Mugen Train and ensure that the demon does not cause more destruction. Despite his valiant effort, Rengoku succumbs to his injuries after the battle. His death leaves a lasting impact on Tanjiro, Nezuko, and the rest of the Demon Slayer Corps. Rengoku’s unwavering determination and selflessness inspire the other characters to continue fighting.
6. Tengen Uzui – The Sound Hashira
Tengen Uzui, the Sound Hashira, is another important character in Demon Slayer. Known for his flashy personality and flamboyant fighting style, Tengen is a powerful warrior who plays a key role in the fight against the demons. He is one of the Hashira who survives the events of the series, though his fate is not without significant consequences.
Tengen sustains serious injuries during the fight against the Upper Rank Six demons, Gyutaro and Daki. While he ultimately survives the battle, his injuries are severe enough that he is forced to retire from active duty as a Hashira. His retirement marks the end of his time as a fighter, but Tengen’s sacrifice and courage are remembered by his comrades and the entire Demon Slayer Corps.
7. Sanemi Shinazugawa – The Wind Hashira
Sanemi Shinazugawa is one of the most intense and emotionally complex characters in Demon Slayer. He is the Wind Hashira, known for his aggressive fighting style and strong personality. Like many other Hashira, Sanemi faces life-threatening battles throughout the series. Despite his many struggles and the emotional weight of his past, Sanemi survives the events of Demon Slayer.
While Sanemi sustains numerous injuries and faces nearly fatal battles, he does not die during the series. He plays a key role in the final battle against Muzan Kibutsuji and is instrumental in the downfall of the Demon King. Although deeply affected by his past, Sanemi’s resilience helps him survive and contribute to the ultimate victory against the demons.
8. Gyomei Himejima – The Stone Hashira
Gyomei Himejima, the Stone Hashira, is one of the most powerful and compassionate members of the Demon Slayer Corps. His immense strength, unwavering loyalty, and gentle heart make him a beloved character. However, Gyomei’s death is a tragic and emotional moment in the series.
Gyomei dies in the battle against the Upper Rank One demon, Kokushibo. Despite his incredible power, Gyomei is fatally wounded during the fight, and his death serves as a reminder of the high stakes of the war against demons. His passing leaves a void in the Corps, but his legacy lives on through the other characters who continue to fight for the sake of humanity.
9. The Final Hashira Deaths
As the series reaches its climax, the remaining Hashira face increasingly difficult battles against Muzan and his forces. In the final battle, several Hashira make the ultimate sacrifice to ensure the defeat of the Demon King. These deaths mark the end of an era for the Demon Slayer Corps, as the Hashira have been central figures in the fight against the demons.
While the exact fate of each Hashira varies, one thing is clear: the death of the Hashira serves as a poignant reminder of the cost of the war against the demons and the sacrifices made by these warriors. Their deaths leave a lasting impact on the characters they leave behind, who are forever changed by the loss of their mentors, friends, and comrades.
Conclusion
The deaths of the Hashira in Demon Slayer are some of the most emotional and impactful moments in the series. Each Hashira’s death represents the toll of the war against demons and the sacrifices made by these powerful warriors. From Kyojuro Rengoku’s fiery spirit to Shinobu Kocho’s quiet courage, the Hashira’s legacy lives on through the characters who carry their memory and continue to fight for a better world. Their deaths remind us that in the world of Demon Slayer, heroism comes at a steep price.
Related topics:
- Will Tanjiro Become a Hashira?
- What Is Sukuna’s Real Name?
- Who is the Most Beautiful Character in Demon Slayer?
