Obanai Iguro, the Serpent Hashira

Who is Obanai Iguro, the snake guy

Obanai Iguro is a key supporting character in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. As the Serpent Hashira of the Demon Slayer Corps, he is one of the most skilled and dedicated swordsmen in the fight against demons. Known for his stoic demeanor and tragic past, Obanai is a complex character whose strength and resilience make him a fan favorite.

Voice Actors:

Japanese: Kenichi Suzumura
English: Erik Scott Kimerer

Appearance:
Obanai’s striking features include pale skin, heterochromia (a yellow right eye and a turquoise left eye), and a large scar across his mouth, which he conceals with bandages. His snake-themed design is further emphasized by his companion, Kaburamaru, a white serpent that often rests on his shoulders.

Obanai’s character gains complexity through his relationship with Mitsuri Kanroji, the Love Hashira. Despite his stern demeanor, Obanai harbors feelings for Mitsuri and cares deeply for her, adding emotional depth to his personality.

What defines Obanai Iguro’s Personality and Background?

Obanai Iguro is a man of few words, often appearing cold and aloof. However, beneath his stern exterior lies a deeply caring individual, particularly when it comes to Mitsuri Kanroji, the Love Hashira. His tragic past has shaped his intense hatred for demons and his unwavering dedication to his duty as a Hashira.

Key Traits:

Stoic and Reserved: Obanai rarely shows emotion, but his actions reveal his loyalty and compassion.
Self-Loathing: Due to his family’s dark history, Obanai struggles with feelings of guilt and unworthiness.
Protective Nature: He is fiercely protective of Mitsuri and his comrades, often risking his life to ensure their safety.

Physical Appearance:

Obanai’s bandaged face hides a scar that runs from the corners of his lips to his ears, a grim reminder of his traumatic childhood.
His heterochromatic eyes (yellow right eye, turquoise left eye) and snake-like features make him one of the most visually distinct characters in the series.

Despite his cold demeanor in battles, he shows a protective side, especially towards Mitsuri Kanroji, risking his life to shield her from harm. The relationships between Obanai and Mitsuri and his deep respect for Kagaya Ubuyashiki showcase deeper connections beyond his strict exterior.

Obanai’s determination is evident in his continued fight against Muzan, even after being blinded and covered in wounds. His ability to protect others, express gratitude, and drop initial grudges highlight his capacity for change and growth. As one of the strongest Hashira, Obanai’s mastery of the Serpent Breathing technique further emphasizes his exceptional combat skills, contributing to his status within the Demon Slayer Corps.

What is Iguro Obanai’s backstory?

Obanai’s past is one of the most heartbreaking in Demon Slayer. Born into a family that worshipped a snake-like demon, he was subjected to unimaginable cruelty. His family sacrificed their own children to the demon in exchange for stolen goods. At the age of 12, Obanai’s mouth was forcibly cut to resemble the demon’s, leaving him with a permanent scar.

Despite these horrors, Obanai overcame his past and rose to become one of the most powerful Hashira in the Demon Slayer Corps. His resilience and determination are a testament to his strength of character.

What is Obanai’s Power and Fighting Style?

As the Serpent Hashira, Obanai is a master of the Serpent Breathing technique, a unique swordsmanship style that mimics the movements of a snake. His combat skills are further enhanced by his bond with Kaburamaru, his serpent companion, who aids him in battle by predicting enemy movements.

Key Abilities:

Demon Slayer Mark: Awakened during the final battle against Muzan, this mark significantly boosts Obanai’s strength, speed, and durability.
Bright Red Nichirin Sword: By channeling all his strength into his grip, Obanai turns his blade bright red, drawing inspiration from Muichiro Tokito, effectively slowing Muzan’s regeneration.
Transparent World: Briefly accessing the Transparent World during Gyomei’s instruction Obanai briefly accesses this heightened state of perception, allowing him to see Muzan’s vital organs.

Serpent Breathing Techniques:

Winding Serpent Slash: A slashing attack that mimics the winding motion of a snake.
Venom Fangs of the Narrow Head: A swift decapitation strike executed with precision.
Coil Choke: A circular slashing maneuver that attacks from all directions.
Twin-Headed Reptile: A leaping horizontal slash.
Slithering Serpent: A versatile attack capable of decapitating multiple enemies.

Know more about the Snake Hashira

What does Obanai’s face look like?

Obanai’s lower face is covered in bandages to conceal the scar that runs from the corners of his lips to his ears. His heterochromatic eyes (yellow right eye, turquoise left eye) are one of his most striking features.

What is the name of Obanai’s snake?

Obanai’s serpent companion is named Kaburamaru. The snake is always seen wrapped around Obanai’s shoulders and plays a crucial role in his combat style.

How did Obanai get his scar?

Obanai’s scar is the result of a traumatic event in his childhood. At the age of 12, his family cut his mouth to resemble a snake demon’s, leaving him permanently disfigured.