What does the Anime series ‘Fruits Basket’ deal with?

Features of Anime:

Anime is a style of animation that originated in Japan, known for its vibrant art, colourful characters, complex plots and fantasy themes, appealing to both children and adults. Anime can cover a wide range of genres, including action, romance, science fiction, and fantasy. 

What does the Anime series ‘Fruits Basket’ deal with? 

The Anime ‘Fruits Basket’ revolves around a kind-hearted high school girl named Tohru Honda. The Sohma family harbours a strange secret. Certain members are cursed to transform into animals of the Chinese zodiac whenever they are hugged by someone of the opposite sex, or under great stress. Tohru is determined to help the family by breaking the curse. She succeeds in her attempt at the end. Fruits Basket delves into several themes that contribute to its emotional depth and universal appeal.

Various Themes:

1. Acceptance and Belonging:

One of the central themes is the desire for acceptance and the struggle to find where one belongs. The Sohma family members feel isolated due to their curse. Tohru, with her unconditional acceptance and empathy, helps them realise that they deserve love and belonging despite their differences.

2. Family and Relationships:

The series emphasises the importance of family bonds and the complexity of relationships. It explores the aspects of familial ties, such as support, loyalty, and the pain that family can sometimes inflict. Tohru's presence brings healing to the Sohma family, highlighting how love and understanding can mend even the most strained relationships.

3. Personal Growth and Healing:

Each character undergoes significant personal growth and healing. The series portrays how, confronting one's fears, insecurities, and past traumas is essential for personal development.

4. Identity and Self-Acceptance:

While Sohmas hide their true selves to fit into society, Tohru's influence encourages them to embrace their true selves and find peace with who they are, regardless of societal expectations or limitations.

5. Resilience and Hope:

Despite facing numerous challenges, the characters demonstrate resilience and hope. The series emphasises that even in the darkest times, hope and determination can lead to positive change.

6. Love and Sacrifice:

Love in various forms - romantic, familial, and platonic - is a recurring theme. The series portrays how love can be both a source of strength and vulnerability, highlighting its complex nature.

Moral of the story: 

What I have learnt from this series is to accept people for who they are, despite their differences, and to have empathy for them.