The Tear-Jerking Fate of Every Hashira in Demon Slayer: Prepare to Weep!

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Standing as the final line of defense against the shadowy horde of demons that prowl through the darkness, I am part of an organization, bound by a shared determination to annihilate Muzan Kibutsuji’s legion of monstrous creatures. Among our ranks, the Hashira, the crème de la crème, tower near the pinnacle of our hierarchy as our most formidable warriors within the Demon Slayer Corps. Upon their initial introduction, they are portrayed as virtually indomitable forces. With whispers of the much-anticipated arc drawing to a close in Fall 2025, marking the conclusion of Tanjiro and Nezuko Kamado’s tale with the debut of the first Infinity Castle film, fans have begun bracing themselves for the heartache that inevitably accompanies the loss of beloved characters.

Regrettably, death is an unavoidable fate for all demon hunters, even the powerful Hashira are not immune to an untimely demise. The tragic loss of the Flame Hashira, experienced during the Mugen Train Arc, is just one example. Unfortunately, he was not the only Hashira to meet their end in Demon Slayer. As the manga neared its conclusion and Muzan Kibutsuji found himself in a precarious position, many Hashira succumbed to the attacks of the demon lord and his strongest followers.

On April 24, 2025, Jenny Melzer updated: Excited for The Infinity Castle Arc’s first film release this autumn, the hit movie Mugen Train from Demon Slayer is coming back to cinemas, but with an upgrade – it will be shown in 4K for the very first time. The Mugen Train left fans of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba heartbroken when it was released, particularly due to the captivating character of Flame Hashira, Kyojuro Rengoku. As the anime version of the series nears its end, tearful viewers should stock up on tissues as they prepare for emotional moments ahead. The fight against Muzan Kibutsuji is heating up, and it’s likely that there won’t be a single dry eye in the theater as fans bid farewell to the Hashira who sacrifice themselves to defeat the Demon King.

Death: Chapter 141, “Vengeance” (Flashback)

Kanae Kocho, who was Shinobu’s older sister and a predecessor in her position, was one of the first human casualties outside Tanjiro’s family. Soft-spoken and compassionate, yet not someone to be trifled with, she tragically perished at the hands of a powerful demon, Doma – the second most powerful member within the Upper Ranking Demons and one of the strongest characters in the series “Demon Slayer.

Kanae isn’t revealed as a deeply complex character beyond what we learn from the story, but her demise nonetheless leaves a profound imprint. Far from being inconsequential, Kanae’s death serves as a pivotal moment propelling Shinobu’s transformation into a demon slayer. This is due to the fact that Kanae died in Shinobu’s arms, fueling her with rage that never subsides, driving her relentlessly toward vengeance.

Death: Chapter 144, “Successors” (Mentioned)

One common narrative device found across many fictional works is the mentor character; many shonen protagonists are accompanied by one. Similar to how Tanjiro was guided by Urokudaki, Zenitsu was under the tutelage of Jigoro Kuwajima, a renowned warrior and the former Thunder Hashira. This old warrior had two notable disciples: Zenitsu and Kaigaku. Over time, Zenitsu grew to become a skilled demon slayer, whereas Kaigaku chose a far more ominous route.

In essence, Kaigaku, over time, transformed into a demon and accepted Muzan’s offer to fill the vacancy left by Gyutaro and Daki, becoming the new Upper Moon 6. Stricken with the disgrace of losing one of his students to evil, it is later disclosed that Kuwajima ended his life in despair. The exact timing of his death remains unclear, but readers can infer that it likely occurred not long before Zenitsu embarked on his journey for the Final Selection.

Death: Episode 33, “Set Your Heart Ablaze”

Kyojuro Rengoku didn’t come first among the Hashira, but he was undeniably one of the most impactful, with more than just his generous spirit and explosive abilities setting him apart. When Rengoku debuted, it was his striking design, potent techniques, straightforward yet resonant philosophy, and signature phrase that quickly endeared him to viewers. The Flame Hashira’s tragic demise at the close of the Mugen Train Arc left fans in tears, and it wasn’t only the audience who felt the sorrow. Tanjiro openly expressed during Anime Expo 2022 that he had immense admiration for Satoshi Hino, Rengoku’s voice actor, which made the emotional scenes all the more poignant.

In his confrontation against Upper Moon Three, Akaza, Rengoku skillfully maintains an edge throughout their fight, showcasing the strategic acumen of the Flame Pillar. Despite receiving a lethal wound, he impresses upon Akaza the strength of the Demon Slayer Corps. Not only does he depart with dignity and pride, but he also resists the allure of immortality that Akaza presented. Even with limited screen time, Rengoku’s actions underscore the potential for greatness in everyone, a truth that the Sound Pillar reflects upon when questioning his own resolve during the Entertainment District Arc.

Death: Chapter 163, “Overflowing Heart”

When the Demon Slayer Group confronts Muzan Kibutsuji head-on, it’s understood that their chances of surviving are minimal. Yet, these slim odds fail to discourage the demon slayers, particularly Shinobu, who seizes this opportunity for vengeance against Doma, having murdered her sister Kanae.

The initial skirmish in Muzan’s fortress pits Shinobu against Doma, a fierce confrontation. Despite Shinobu’s defeat, her strategy was shrewd – she had laced herself with heavy doses of Wisteria poison, knowing that Doma might devour her entirely. This strategic move allowed Kanao and Inosuke to rejoin the fray as they found an opening against Upper Rank 2, Doma.

Death: Chapter 179, “Feelings For Elder Brother, Feelings For Younger Brother”

Despite being just 14 years old, Muichiro Tokito is a character who doesn’t shy away from action. His mist-based techniques are quick and captivating, which might give the impression that he’s meant for supporting roles. However, Muichiro stands out as one of the most formidable swordsmen in the Demon Slayer Corps. In fact, his skills are on par with Kokushibo, Upper Moon One, who was an exceptionally skilled swordsman in his own right.

As I sneak into the castle, I find myself joining forces with Genya, Sanemi, and Gyomei to confront an incredibly powerful creature. Together, we struggle even to hold our own against this formidable foe. Muichiro manages to pierce Kokushibo’s body with his Nichirin blade before taking a fatal wound from the demon. Despite the Mist Hashira not making it through the battle, his sword emits a fiery red glow and starts burning the Upper Rank 1 from within.

Death: Chapter 200, “The Price of Victory”

Mitsuri first appeared in the Swordsmith Village Arc, equipped with her clever Love Breathing abilities. Despite appearing timid and supportive, Mitsuri should not be underestimated. In reality, her Love Breathing is based on Flame Breathing, having been taught by the late Kyojuro Rengoku.

In the course of the Infinity Castle Storyline, Mitsuri joins forces with Obanai to defeat Nakime, a musician controlled by Muzan who rearranges the castle’s structure. Successful in their mission against the demon, they assist Tanjiro in confronting Muzan, but her tale concludes there. Although she lives to witness the battle’s conclusion, she eventually loses her life due to her injuries, passing away in Obanai’s embrace. Comic book enthusiasts were deeply saddened by Mitsuri’s departure, more so considering the events that transpired shortly afterwards.

Death: Chapter 200, “The Price of Victory”

Among the captivating characters in “Demon Slayer,” I’d argue that none are as enigmatic as Obanai, the Serpent Hashira. Despite his brief screen time, his story didn’t resonate with the same emotional weight as some other characters. Yet, there’s a strong following among manga fans, who are intrigued by how he skillfully conceals his immense power and compassion beneath layers of bandages.

As the Serpent Hashira, Obanai wields an extraordinary arsenal of techniques and abilities that make him a formidable force in battle. However, from the get-go, the deck was stacked against him.

Just as Mitsuri does, he engages Nakime in combat and fights until his final breath, assisting Tanjiro in defeating Muzan. He breathes his last mere moments after Mitsuri, swearing they would marry and build a better life if they were to meet again someday. True to their word, Obanai and Mitsuri reunite when they are reborn. Their reincarnations operate a diner together, which is frequently visited by the descendants of other characters.

Death: Chapter 200, “The Price of Victory”

As an observer, I can attest that among all combatants, he stands out uniquely. Unlike others who wield blades, he chooses blunt weapons for his battles. In the recent infiltration, Gyomei’s formidable physical power proved to be a decisive advantage for the Demon Slayer Corps. His strength was so significant that it shifted the balance of power during the climactic battle with Muzan, potentially altering the course of our struggle against the demons.

Initially, it was the Stone Pillar who identified Muzan’s distinctive physiology, enabling their allies to attack him more accurately when fighting the Demon King. Although the final blow isn’t depicted, by the end of the battle, it’s clear that Gyomei sustained severe injuries. Once the smoke cleared, Gyomei succumbed to his wounds and was welcomed in the afterlife by the orphans he had nurtured. The selfless sacrifice of the Stone Pillar would be etched in the memories of survivors forever.

All The Dead Hashira Were Reincarnated, And They All Remained Connected

More contemporary anime series seem less concerned with preserving cherished characters compared to earlier productions. By the finale of “Demon Slayer,” only four Hashira – Giyu Tomioka, Tengen Uzui, Sakonji Urokodaki, and Sanemi Shinazugawa – remain alive. It’s plausible that both Sanemi and Giyu met their end after the age of 25, as a result of displaying their Demon Slayer Mark. They might have spent the rest of their lives in tranquility, but their fates beyond that point are uncertain.

Thankfully, mangaka Koyoharu Gotouge didn’t end the story so abruptly as seen in Chapter 205 during the 21st-century timeskip. Instead, we find ourselves following Kanata Kamado (Tanjiro’s great-grandson) and Yoshiteru Agatasuma (Zenitsu and Nezuko’s great-grandson). As they head to school, they come across a few suspected reincarnations of the fallen Hashira. These include a pair of baby twins who bear a striking resemblance to Muichiro and Yuichiro, two students who look like Shinobu and Kanae Kocho, and a kindergarten teacher that seems to be modeled after Gyomei Himejima. Along their route, Kanata and Yoshiteru also recall a diner run by a couple reminiscent of Mitsuri Kanroji and Obanai Iguro.

Towards the end of the chapter, Sumihiko, Kanata’s younger sibling, oversleeps and hastily makes his way to school. Along his path, he encounters two elderly men reminiscent of Jigoro Kuwajima and Sakonji Urokodaki, but instead catches the eye of two officers who bear a striking resemblance to Genya and Sanemi Shinazugawa. Eventually, Sumihiko crosses paths with Tojuro Rengoku, a relative of Kyojuro’s brother Senjuro. Chapter 205 also emphasizes other family members, such as Aoba Hashibira, who is a scientist and great-grandson of Inosuke. As reincarnation is often believed in Japan, one could say that the story of Demon Slayer concludes on a somewhat optimistic note.

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2025-04-24 23:23