Understanding the Kushan in Berserk: A Comprehensive Explanation

Essential Insights

The Kushan Empire boasts a formidable, well-organized military that utilizes both powerful magic users and supernatural entities.
Once the elite protectors of Midland, the Bakiraka Clan allied with Emperor Ganishka in hopes of reclaiming their ancestral lands.

Berserk is a profoundly intense Seinen manga renowned for its dark themes and emotional journey. Among its most harrowing moments is the Eclipse, where Griffith sacrifices the entire Band of the Hawk, abandoning his humanity to ascend as Femto, a member of the Godhand. This brutal act sets the stage for his tyrannical rule over a new kingdom, Falconia.

In his ruthless pursuit of power, Griffith did not foresee the Kushan, a prominent faction within the Berserk narrative. While their presence has been felt from earlier chapters, they now position themselves against Griffith and his regime. This article will delve into the Kushan and their significance within the series.

Understanding the Kushan Empire

The Importance of the Kushan

Overview of the Kushan Empire
First Appearance	Berserk, Chapter 176, “Determination and Departure”
Debut Date	February 9, 2001
Story Arc	Conviction Arc

The Kushan Empire exists far to the east of Midland, safety beyond the reach of the Holy See’s influence. As Griffith’s regime began expanding through the world, the Kushan recognized the threat posed to them, prompting their decision to wage war against him.

Initially depicted under the rule of Emperor Ganishka—a unique Apostle who opposed Griffith and the Godhand—the Kushan’s diverse ruling clans engage in a continuous struggle for dominance. Notably, the Bakiraka Clan emerges as a significant force, convening at assemblies known as the Kurultai to deliberate on national matters.

The Kushan’s might stems from a highly structured military, incorporating formidable magic users and otherworldly creatures. Their military strength enabled them to launch attacks against the Holy See and seize vast territories in Midland.

This empire’s resourcefulness in warfare extends to developing powerful siege engines and war machines, bolstered by an extensive slave labor force sourced from conquered territories, enabling them to continually replenish their ranks.

“I control the vastest territory in the world. I will not relinquish it. Even if it is smeared with blood and defiled, this world belongs to me.”

A critical component of the Kushan’s military strategy is the Pishaca Gana, a cadre of fearsome supernatural beings manipulated by skilled sorcerers, prominently including the notorious Daiba. These entities, alongside grotesque hybrids known as Daka—often described as a blend of human and demon—contribute immense power to their arsenal.

The Kushan Empire’s dominion is predominantly maintained through fear, and their violent occupation of Midland—marked by massacres and enslavement—underscores their brutal strategy. However, their encounter with Griffith marked a significant setback, resulting in the degradation of the Kushan’s influence within Midland.

The Bakiraka Clan

A Force to Reckon With

Overview of the Bakiraka Clan
First Appearance	Berserk, Chapter 55, “A Way Through”
Debut Date	March 24, 1995
Story Arc	Golden Age Arc

Historically, the Bakiraka Clan was one of the strongest factions within the Kushan Empire until they were exiled centuries ago, which led to their diminished reputation as mere hired assassins. They aligned with the most powerful figures to regain their former stature, ultimately serving as elite protectors of Midland’s royal family.

In an effort to revive their clan’s prestige, the Bakiraka allied with Emperor Ganishka against Griffith, viewing the conflict as a pathway back to their ancestral homeland. Silat, a prominent member of the clan, plays a pivotal role in the overarching storyline, influencing the fate of Guts and his allies.

Fans of Berserk can catch the latest developments by streaming the series on Crunchyroll or watching it on Amazon Prime.

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