Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba introduces the Hashiras, the highest-ranking demon slayers in the Demon Slayer Corps, who possess exceptional swordsmanship skills and breathing techniques. In the beginning, there were nine Hashiras, all young with a strong desire to eradicate Muzan Kibutsuji’s demon leaders. However, the Hashira position is not permanent, and over time, their position has changed due to regeneration, retirement, or death. In this article, we will talk about the six former Hashiras, their roles, and the reason for their departure.
6. Jigoro Kuwajima
Jigoro was a former Thunder Hashira who taught Zenitsu and Kaigaku how to master breathing techniques. Jigoro was known for his strict discipline toward his pupils, although he was a kind person. Jigoro found Zenitsu on the street and took care of him, but Kaigaku ended up abandoning his path and became a demon. When Jigoro found out about it, he took responsibility and committed seppuku.
5. Kanae Kocho
As the former Flower Hashira, Kanae taught breathing techniques to her younger sister, Shinobu Kocho, and her adopted sister, Kanao Tsuyuri. The most beautiful Hashira, Kanae, believed that demons could be friends with humans and showed no hatred toward them, even though they killed her parents. However, she died in a battle against the Upper Moon Two demon, Doma, at the age of 17, leaving her legacy with Shinobu and Kanao.
4. Kyojuro Rengoku
Being the Flame Hashira, Kyojuro’s swordsmanship skills and heredity put him in his position. Despite being burdened with expectations, Kyojuro showed extraordinary skills and determination to fight against demons, even refusing to join Muzan Kibutsuji when offered. Despite his efforts, Kyojuro died in a fight against the Upper Moon Three demon, Akaza, and left valuable advice to Tanjiro.
3. Shinjuro Rengoku
Shinjuro was a retired Flame Hashira and Kyojuro’s father, who was once one of the strongest Hashiras and the head of the Rengoku family. However, after his wife died, Shinjuro became disappointed with his breathing technique and developed an inferiority complex that made him retire from his position.
2. Sakonji Urokodaki
Sakonji, the former Water Hashira, was the master of Tanjiro and played a significant role in his career as a demon slayer. Sakonji lived alone on a mountain and had an aversion to taking pupils, but he recognized Tanjiro’s tenacity and helped him cure his sister, Nezuko.
1. Tengen Uzui
Tengen, the former Sound Hashira, retired after losing his arm and eye in a battle against the Upper Moon Six demons, Daki and Guytaro. Described as the strongest and most playful Hashira with a unique appearance, Tengen was uncertain about his fighting ability after the battle and chose to retire. However, he still supported the Corps in other ways.
In conclusion, the Hashiras’ roles may change, but their impact on the Demon Slayer Corps remains significant. Their dedication to their duty and their comrades inspires the new generation of demon slayers.
