Anime's Mythic Voyage Exploring Hindu And Buddhist Inspirations

NewsPoint

Aug 24, 2023

Bishamonten (Noragami)

In Noragami, Bishamonten, one of the Seven Gods of Fortune, is depicted as a powerful war deity. Drawing from Buddhist tradition, the anime weaves her story into a modern world of gods and spirits, highlighting themes of loyalty, vengeance and redemption.

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Vinsmoke Judge (One Piece)

One Piece introduces Vinsmoke Judge, who draws inspiration from the concept of rebirth in Hinduism. As a scientist and patriarch, his name reflects the karmic cycle, adding depth to his character within the expansive pirate-driven narrative.

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Kokujo Tengen Myo'o (Bleach)

Derived from Esoteric Buddhism, Kokujo Tengen Myo'o is a fearsome deity in Bleach. Its incorporation underscores the series' exploration of the supernatural, showcasing a fusion of spiritual beliefs with the supernatural battles that define the anime.

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Lancer Of Red (Fate/Apocrypha)

Fate/Apocrypha introduces Lancer of Red, whose character is inspired by Karna from the Mahabharata. His struggle with identity and loyalty mirrors the complexities found in the ancient epic, giving a fresh perspective to a legendary figure.

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Rakshas (Berserk)

In Berserk, Rakshas embodies the malevolent nature of traditional rakshasas. Rooted in Hindu mythology, these demon-like beings add an eerie layer to the dark fantasy world of Berserk, aligning with the anime's themes of terror and darkness.

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Chakra (Naruto)

Naruto incorporates the concept of chakra, a life force found in Hindu and Buddhist traditions. While modified for the anime's ninja-centric universe, chakra's fundamental connection to spiritual energy remains, adding depth to the characters' abilities and growth.

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Guanyin (Hunter X Hunter)

Drawing from East Asian Buddhism, Hunter X Hunter features The 100-Type Guanyin Bodhisattva, a powerful spiritual entity. Its portrayal reflects themes of enlightenment and compassion, contributing to the anime's multifaceted narrative.

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King Enma (Yu Yu Hakusho)

Yu Yu Hakusho introduces King Enma, the ruler of the Spirit Realm. Inspired by Yama, the Hindu god of death and justice, King Enma's role in the anime echoes his mythological counterpart's role as a judge of souls.

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Ganesha (DanMachi)

In DanMachi, Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity, is reimagined as a god overseeing a pleasure district. True to his traditional attributes, Ganesha's portrayal adds a touch of whimsy and wisdom to the anime's divine world.

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Agni (Black Butler)

Agni in Black Butler draws from Hindu mythology as the god of fire. His presence, as well as his relationship with the characters, serves as a symbolic representation of transformation, purification, and protection.

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