Celebrating Friendship day with Anime - Our top 7 favourite friendships in the Big Three Anime
Today (August 4) is celebrated as Friendship Day all over the world. Friendship defines "Loyalty," and loyalty in friendship is beautifully portrayed by many anime characters. Anime often teaches us about relationships, loyalty, love, and trust. Let's look at a few anime characters who have portrayed the best friendship in their series.
1. Luffy and Zoro
Luffy and Zoro from "One Piece" exemplify the best friendship in anime, known for their unwavering trust and loyalty towards each other’s dreams. Numerous times, Zoro has entrusted his life to his captain, Luffy, and vice versa. In episode 377 of "One Piece," Zoro was even ready to sacrifice himself to save Luffy and the Straw Hats from Bartholomew Kuma, allowing his crew to escape.
“If I can’t even protect my captain’s dream, then whatever ambition I have is nothing but talk! Luffy is the man who will become the Pirate King!”
2. Naruto and Sasuke
The friendship between Naruto and Sasuke in "Naruto" is complex and multifaceted. Although they start off as rivals, they are connected by their shared tragic past. Even when Sasuke becomes a traitor and tries to kill Naruto, Naruto remains determined to bring him back as a friend. This dedication helps change their fates, diverging from the paths of their prior incarnations.
"How can someone who can't even save his friends become Hokage...? Isn't it so, Sasuke?"
3. Ichigo and Rukia
Ichigo and Rukia from "Bleach" start as key characters but evolve into one of the strongest and most enduring duos of Soul Reapers. Rukia sacrifices her Soul Reaper powers to save Ichigo, a pivotal moment in the series. Ichigo’s attempt to save Rukia from execution highlights their deep bond, which bridges the Soul Society and the human world.
"Whether I like him, whether I hate him, it's just all so troublesome. Love, companionship, and friendship... it's nothing but trouble."
4. Luffy and Bon Chan
The friendship between Luffy and Bon Chan (Bon Clay) in "One Piece" is beloved by fans. Initially enemies, their bond deepens when Bon Clay sacrifices himself during the Impel Down arc to help Luffy and his crew. Bon Clay’s selfless act of capturing himself to ensure Luffy’s escape to save Ace is a powerful testament to their friendship.
“To true friendship, how long you’ve known each other means nothing!”
5. Naruto and Gaara
Naruto and Gaara from "Naruto" share a mature friendship forged through shared suffering and similar dreams. Both were Jinchuriki, hated by their villages and plagued by loneliness. Gaara, initially following an evil path, is profoundly impacted by Naruto’s words and actions. During the Akatsuki arc, it is Naruto's chakra and Granny Chiyo that save Gaara, deepening their bond and leading to mutual respect as they both become leaders of their respective villages.
"I want to protect my friend, and I want to protect this entire world! I am too young and inexperienced to do that, so I ask you, all of you... please lend me your strength for this fight!"
6. Ukitake and Kyoraku
Ukitake and Kyoraku from "Bleach" are a renowned duo, known for their camaraderie and long-standing friendship. As classmates and strong pupils of Yamamoto, they are two of the oldest Captains among the Soul Reapers. Despite their different temperaments, they share a harmonious relationship, often showing their playful side while reflecting on their vast experiences. Their bond is a testament to true friendship, characterized by mutual respect and support.
