Latest news with #Jiraiya
Time of India
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Naruto: Why the legendary Jiraiya refused to become hokage
For those unfamiliar with the universe of Naruto, the Hokage is the leader of the Hidden Leaf Village. Traditionally, the strongest and most respected ninja in the land. Yet paradoxically, one of the village's strongest shinobi, Jiraiya , refused the opportunity to serve as the Hokage — multiple times. What would cause such a mighty and learned warrior to turn away from the greatest in his clan? Let's delve into the emotional and personal reasons behind Jiraiya's choice and how his irrational decision, in all of its glory, changed the Naruto story forever. Jiraiya's strength: More than just power In the Naruto franchise, Jiraiya is one of the three Legendary Sannin—super elite warriors who were trained by the Third Hokage. Together with Tsunade and Orochimaru , Jiraiya became known as one of the Legendary Three for their prowess, battle experience, and an extensive knowledge of ninjutsu. Even Itachi Uchiha, one of the most powerful and terrifying characters in the series, acknowledged that a battle against Jiraiya would probably result in a stalemate—even with assistance. You feel about his ostentatious perversion, despite all of Jiraiya's staggering talent, he ultimately did not succeed in his dream of becoming Hokage. Indeed, he declined the appointment not once but twice. This decision had fans scratching their heads for many years. He was offered the Hokage title—And refused The first time Jiraiya was offered the position of Hokage was by the Third Hokage (Hiruzen Sarutobi) upon his own commencement of retirement planning. Despite originally wanting Orochimaru to be his successor, when Orochimaru turned rogue, Hiruzen viewed Jiraiya as the next best choice. Jiraiya rejected the offer and instead suggested his own student, Minato Namikaze, who indeed later became the Fourth Hokage and Naruto's father. The second offer only came after Orochimaru attacked the village and killed the Third Hokage. This time, the Konoha elder council and the Daimyo of the Land of Fire specifically needed Jiraiya to agree to be the Fifth Hokage. Jiraiya once again turned her down, instead suggesting Tsunade, convinced she possessed the heart and fortitude needed to rule. His guilt over Orochimaru's fall One of the more notable reasons that Jiraiya rejected the role was personal guilt. He held himself responsible for not being able to prevent Orochimaru's turn to evil. The two were more than just teammates—they were like brothers. Jiraiya knew that if he was not able to save his closest friend then he had no right to act as the leader of a whole village. Similar to Naruto's relationship with Sasuke, Jiraiya and Orochimaru had a deep but messy connection. That betrayal weighed heavily on Jiraiya for many years afterward, and he always doubted his worthiness of becoming the village's protector following the incident. Jiraiya was a wanderer by choice A second reason Jiraiya turned down the Hokage position was his hedonistic ways. For the next twenty years of his life, he traveled all over the world, collecting information and writing books. This near tireless patrol gave him the ability to fight against criminal organizations such as Akatsuki and hunt down Orochimaru's movements. Jiraiya didn't simply like the open road. He believed being out there was his responsibility. Being Hokage would have obligated him to remain in one location, and that he clearly was not ready to do. He, as agent, author, and fighter, thought his mission would be most effective if he remained on the move. He battled with an inferiority complex Despite the fact that most people would view Jiraiya as a hero, he viewed himself as a failure. He never captured Tsunade's heart, couldn't redeem Orochimaru, and was unable to reach his student Nagato, who would go on to become the deadly Pain . This sense of inadequacy caused him to feel that he was unworthy to bear the mantle of Hokage. Even in his last moments, Jiraiya was more concerned with amending his failures than he was jubilating over his victories. He lost everything to find the truth behind Pain and save Naruto's life. His death didn't merely serve as a sacrifice—it was the ultimate act of redemption. Jiraiya valued character over power Though Jiraiya was indeed recognizable as the strongest ninja before his time, he mostly deferred working in the shadows and dedicated his life to his students. Jiraiya was certainly incredibly strong, he didn't think that being Hokage was just about power. It required correlative emotional equilibrium, prudence, and daring. Despite all the successes he achieved and the correlative growth, he felt that with all his regrets and flaws he could never be the type of leader the village required or deserved. Ultimately, deep down, Jiraiya knew who he was. He decided to battle in the background, train the future's finest, and teach Naruto how to be the type of Hokage he never was. Jiraiya's legacy lives on The journey of the hero Jiraiya is complete as Jiraiya's choice to not accept Hokage wasn't weakness—it was a choice forged by humility, pain, and wisdom. By taking the road less travelled, he single-handedly ensured the betterment of Konoha's future. His teachings, courage, and sacrifices contributed to Naruto becoming the hero he was destined to be. While he may have never donned the Hokage cap, Jiraiya was a true leader in every sense of the word. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
Time of India
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Naruto Shippuden: 10 saddest moments that left fans in tears
Even the toughest ninjas shed a tear —and so did we. Naruto Shippuden , the critically acclaimed sequel to one of the most popular anime series in history, is full of intense action, amazing camaraderie, and tear-jerking transformation. Aside from all the action and adventure, the series brought fans some truly heartbreaking moments that still reduce fans to tears. Naruto Shippuden is the sequel series to Naruto. Created in the throes of Japan's postwar malaise, Naruto takes place in a world undergoing a technological revolution, filled with war and conflict, on the verge of complete collapse, and follows our hero, teenage ninja Naruto Uzumaki, as he fights to save his friends, defeat deadly foes, and gain recognition within this strife-torn world. The show touches on loneliness, sacrifice, regret, and the relationship between parents and children. All themes intended to resonate with adults. That personal, intimate quality makes it have an emotional impact even outside the anime fandom. Here are 10 of the saddest moments in Naruto Shippuden that left our hearts shattered. 1. Naruto meets his father for the first time Naruto's childhood was defined by a deep-rooted loneliness, having lost both parents without ever meeting them. When he finally learned that the mysterious Fourth Hokage, Minato Namikaze, was his father all along, it became a 'crying ninja' moment for anime fans everywhere. Minato's introduction comes at one of Naruto's lowest points, as he tries to prevent the Nine-Tails from completely overwhelming his body. Their brief, yet intense exchange, was filled with disbelief, affection and love—the type Naruto had never felt before. It was an amazing, beautiful but bittersweet moment. 2. Jiraiya's death during the fight against pain Jiraiya wasn't merely Naruto's teacher—he was, in many ways, a surrogate grandfather. He filled our hearts with laughter through his childish friendly jokes, he still challenged and taught Naruto about strength. When Jiraiya finally met his end in battle against his former student, Pain, he didn't make it an easy death to swallow. His final breath around him, he still found a way to send a secret message Course Required to Save the Hidden Leaf. To see him go beneath the surface, the acceptance that he died alone but full of hope was the hardest moment to watch in one of the series' hardest moments. 3. Shikamaru loses his mentor, Asuma There's a reason why Shikamaru was always so calm, so clever, so cool – he was almost always a step ahead. Yet when his team confronted the murderous Akatsuki pair, Hidan and Kakuzu, it was at a terrible price. Asuma, their sensei, was killed defending them. Asuma's last words to Shikamaru were profoundly touching, and his death served as a big turning point in Shikamaru's life. This painful loss would impart to fans the lesson that even our most beloved, badass characters were not impervious to unimaginable heartache. 4. Itachi's true story finally exposed For years, Itachi Uchiha was vilified for the slaughter of his entire clan. When that truth came out, it changed everything. As it turned out Itachi did it to save his younger brother, Sasuke , from becoming a civil war leader in an inevitable conflict between their clan and the rest of the Hidden Leaf. He absorbed all the criticism, suffered in solitude, and passed away without anyone ever discovering what truly transpired. His last message to Sasuke, 'I'll love you forever,' was a gut punch then and it remains one today. 5. Naruto's parents sacrifice themselves to save him Naruto had long thought that his parents were killed in a fox raid on their village. When he does finally discover the horrible truth, the tale becomes almost impossibly sad. In that timeline, his mother Kushina and father Minato sacrificed themselves to save baby Naruto from the Nine-Tailed Fox. They sacrificed all so he could survive. To see their last moments like this and hear their words of encouragement and support for Naruto was pretty damn brutal. 6. Neji Hyuga's sacrifice in the fourth great ninja war While I can't speak for the writers behind Neji's development, one thing is for certain. Neji began as a very reserved, hostile character. Through the series, he underwent character development and became a man who would lay everything down on the line for his fellow companions. As a member of Team 10, during the Fourth Great Ninja War, Neji jumped in front of an enemy attack to save Naruto and Hinata. His character's unexpected death broke fans' hearts and served as a painful reminder of how cruel war can be—even in an anime. 7. Shikamaru and Ino hear their fathers' final words During a key battle in the war, Shikamaru's father Shikaku and Ino's father Inoichi knew they wouldn't make it. They used their abilities to send one last message to their children before dying in an explosion. Hearing those final words in real time, while still fighting, made this scene especially heartbreaking. It was a reminder of how much these characters gave for peace. 8. Hinata tries to save Naruto from pain Hinata had always admired Naruto. During Pain's attack on the village, she stepped in to protect him—despite knowing she didn't stand a chance. She was beaten badly, and Naruto thought she had died. The moment triggered Naruto's rage and awakened the Nine-Tails. It was a powerful moment of love, bravery, and loss. 9. Shikamaru breaks down over Asuma's death After losing Asuma, Shikamaru holds in his emotions—until one quiet game of shogi with his father. Overwhelmed by grief, he suddenly flips the board and breaks down. This emotional release from such a calm and logical character showed fans a very real side of pain and mourning. It wasn't just sad—it was human. 10. Naruto and Minato say goodbye for the last time In the final battles, Naruto fights alongside a reanimated version of his father Minato. They work together briefly, sharing a bond they never got to have in life. But when the reanimation ends, Minato vanishes. Before he goes, he wishes Naruto a happy birthday—a birthday he had never been there to celebrate. Naruto sends a message back for his mother in the afterlife, closing this short but emotional father-son reunion. Final thoughts: Naruto Shippuden balanced action with heartbreak Naruto Shippuden gave fans epic battles and unforgettable moments, but it was the emotional depth that made it truly special. These tragic scenes didn't just make us cry—they helped us understand the pain, growth, and strength of the characters we loved. Whether you're new to anime or a longtime fan, these moments prove that Naruto Shippuden isn't just about ninjas—it's about heart. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
Time of India
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Naruto fans still heartbroken over Jiraiya's death — Here's why it still hurts
Naruto fans still heartbroken over Jiraiya's death — here's why it still hurts Credit- Fandom Even years after the conclusion of Naruto, fans around the globe still aren't over the heartbreaking death of one particular fan-favorite character — the legendary ninja, Jiraiya. Naruto may seem like old news to cater kids these days, but let me tell you, in the early 2000s Naruto arguably rivaled One Piece and Bleach as one of the most iconic series ever created as it was one of the definitive series in the 'Big Three' of shonen anime. Operation Sindoor Operation Sindoor: Several airports in India closed - check full list Did Pak shoot down Indian jets? What MEA said India foils Pakistan's attack on Jammu airport: What we know so far It's about the adventures of Naruto Uzumaki, an adolescent ninja who seeks recognition from his peers and dreams of becoming the Hokage, the village chief, the strongest of all. In the process, he confronts war, betrayal, and endless violence. It's the emotional battles, particularly against the death of beloved characters, that hurt the most. No death in the long-running series has lingered with fans more than the aching fate of Naruto's teacher: Jiraiya the Toad Sage . Who was Jiraiya in Naruto Tragedy struck when Jiraiya—inspired by his own former pupil—invaded the Hidden Rain village to bello against the evil Akatsuki organization, only to end up killed and pinned by their leader, Pain. Jiraiya was one of the most powerful and respected ninjas in the Naruto universe. Considered one of the Three Legendary Sannin (with Tsunade and Orochimaru), Jiraiya wasn't only a great fighter he was a deeply philosophical mentor and an Akatsuki-slaying, undercover spy-in-training with an ear to the ground, working to keep his village safe. He found out from that same prophecy that he'd be training the child who could either save the world or destroy it. That child came to be Naruto Uzumaki. Jiraiya became a father figure to Naruto, teaching him important jutsu like the Rasengan but helps form his ideals, values, and future aspirations. Eventually, their relationship evolved from that of student and teacher to more of a father and son dynamic. A hero's last stand against the Akatsuki 11 Heroic Death Though Jiraiya's death was one of the saddest in Naruto, it was incredibly heroic. He undertook a treasonous secret solo mission to find out the Akatsuki's secret, a criminal group collecting all the dangerous tailed beasts. His pursuit of answers brought him into a life or death battle with Pain, the enigmatic head of the Akatsuki, who wielded the godlike Rinnegan eye and could control six corpses simultaneously. Even after using his strongest tactics, such as Sage Mode, Jiraiya was still overpowered by Pain's arsenal. With this game-changing intel, Naruto would ultimately defeat Pain's army in return for the great sage's sacrificial heroics on the battlefield. He was outbirded and outbeaten, but even in his last dying moments, Jiraiya was able to communicate a critical piece of information back to the Hidden Leaf Village—one that would eventually propel Naruto to overcome Pain in kind. He died a long way from home, alone but at peace, with a promise kept and a message of hope and love instilled in his student. A character's death that altered Naruto indefinitely So many characters die throughout Naruto—from Naruto's own parents, to one of his original teammates Neji—but Jiraiya's death is more impactful than any of them, largely because of the powerful emotional connection he had with Naruto. Jiraiya wasn't only a mentor. He was the first grown-up to have faith in Naruto. He taught him how to be a man, how to carry his burdens, how to knock the dust off his soul and how to trust himself when no one else would. His death plunged Naruto into deep sorrow, it motivated him to change—to hone himself and become the kind of individual who could protect those he loved and eliminate the cycle of hatred permeating the ninja world. Naruto didn't simply lose a teacher — he lost a father figure. That's what made the loss hit fans so hard then and makes it resonate just as much today. Jiraiya's legacy continues in Naruto and Boruto Jiraiya's life came to a tragic end, he was far from an irredeemable failure. Naruto goes on to bring many of the techniques Jiraiya taught him into widespread use, such as the Rasengan and Sage Mode. His teachings and beliefs live on in the next generation—including Naruto's son, Boruto. The Boruto series has actively responded to Jiraiya in the form of Koji Kashin, an absolutely epic ninja with a DNA linkage to Jiraiya who functions as a literal clone of Jiraiya. It served as a means for the series to respect Jiraiya's legacy and demonstrate that his impact never really disappeared. Fans still mourn Jiraiya's death Years later, fans across the world are still discussing the meaning of Jiraiya's final battle, Jiraiya's wisdom, and the immense tragedy of his death. At the same time, seek out forums, YouTube comments, or social media accounts where people discuss the show and you'll see someone talking about how they cried during that episode and cry whenever they go back and rewatch it. Jiraiya was more than a made-up character. He embodied the spirit of hope, strength and unconditional love. His death reminded us that even the mightiest heroes are vulnerable. Their legacy can be eternal. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . And don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
Time of India
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Naruto finally reveals the real story behind Tsunade and Jiraiya's relationship
Naruto finally reveals the real story behind Tsunade and Jiraiya's relationship Credit- Fndom Naruto as a whole is not simply an action-filled run-of-the-mill anime. It's a story rich with emotion, dramatic characters, and poignant connections. Of these compelling pairings, the most balked-at yet beloved relationship is between Jiraiya & Tsunade, two of the Legendary Sannin . As cute as it would have been for fans to imagine these two together in real life, the reality is far more bittersweet. Here's everything you need to know about their complicated relationship—what drew them together, what tore them apart, and why it still matters. Incredible exhibit : Jiraiya and Tsunade's first meeting Jiraiya and Tsunade first encountered each other as children training at the Hidden Leaf Village's Ninja Academy. Along with Orochimaru, they were put on the same team together under Hiruzen Sarutobi, who would go on to become the Third Hokage. Ultimately the three grew into the legendary trio referred to as the Sannin, famed for their power in the Second Great Ninja War. Since the introduction of these three characters, Jiraiya has been madly in love with Tsunade. On set, he frequently flirted with her and courted her from a distance. Tsunade, thankfully, was never interested in him romantically. Jiraiya was jaunty and playful, a jokester even in battle, Tsunade was more sober and determined, modeled in part, no doubt, by loss of her loved ones. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Google Brain Co-Founder Andrew Ng, Recommends: Read These 5 Books And Turn Your Life Around Blinkist: Andrew Ng's Reading List Undo Tsunade loved Dan, not Jiraiya Tsunade's heart was won by Dan Kato, another Leaf shinobi who had the dream of making the village stronger. Sadly, Dan perished in combat and the loss had a profound impact on Tsunade's life. She departed from the Hidden Leaf, not able to deal with her loss and no longer able to function as a ninja. Jiraiya was with her through it all, and proved to be a great friend to her, her affection for Dan was always entrenched in her heart. She loved Jiraiya—but not the way he wanted her to. Was there any hope for Jiraiya and Tsunade Amongship, fans speculated upon Tsunade's gradual romantic awakening in Naruto: As one observer noted, 'One of the best things about her character was her undeniable chemistry with Jiraiya. Shippuden, particularly right up until his departure to battle Pain in the Hidden Rain Village. In one tear-jerking scene, Tsunade asked him to return alive, and Jiraiya responded that she would shed tears if he was killed but not as many as she shed over Dan. To a young man from New York about to be deported to Canada, that line was like an atomic bomb. Self-awareness is what made Jiraiya's choice—and the story's bitter sweetness—land with such a punch, because it demonstrated not only how well Jiraiya knew Tsunade's heart, but how he accepted that heart's devotion rested elsewhere. It took the courage to continue loving her without expecting anything in return, realizing from the outset that she may never be able to return his love. Later, when Tsunade was ensnared in the Infinite Tsukuyomi, she envisioned a life of untroubled domestic bliss with Dan, not Jiraiya — finally cementing where her heart really lay. Jiraiya and Tsunade were stronger allies, better friends So while a romance never blossomed, their companionship was based on the foundations of respect, shared war, and loyalty. As one of the Legendary Sannin, they were ranked among the top ninja in history: Jiraiya had perfected the dangerous transformation known as Sage Mode, harnessing natural energy to boost his strength, speed and jutsu to godlike levels. He trained Naruto and acted as the Hidden Leaf's essential spy servant. When Tsunade was first introduced, she had already caused a tremendous paradigm shift in the ninja world with her medical ninjutsu. She was the only one to fully master the Strength of a Hundred Seal, which enabled her to instantly regenerate any injury and overwhelm her enemies in combat. Collectively, they helped better the future of the village and created lasting legacies that would inspire the next generation. Where to stream Naruto and Naruto Shippuden You can stream Naruto and Naruto Shippuden right now on: Crunchyroll (sub and dub versions) Hulu (full episodes in English) Netflix (select regions) Final thoughts Jiraiya and Tsunade's connection wasn't a romantic affair—it was an anomaly. It wasn't just about loyalty, shared pain, and tacit understanding. Even after all hope was lost, Jiraiya never stopped loving Tsunade, even knowing that she could never love him in that way. Tsunade, as much as she mourned his loss, loved him fiercely as a valued friend and trusted comrade. Their relationship serves as a counterpoint to this notion for viewers, illustrating that not all deep, compounding relationships are charged with romance—that deeper, more important connections can be made through friendship, sacrifice, and respect. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . And don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
