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Kazushige Sanda is the titular main protagonist of the fantasy Christmas-themed manga and anime series Sanda. Initially believed to be a normal high school student, it is revealed by his classmate Shiori Fuyumura that he is the descendant of Santa Claus, like his last name implies. Living in near-economically collapsed Japan of 2080, Sanda uses his newfound powers to protect children and restore hope to his country, a sense that he naturally gains as he becomes Santa Claus.
He is voiced by Ayumu Murase in Japanese and Edward A. Mendoza in English Dub.
Background[]
Kazushige Sanda was born one-and-a-half decade close to the Tenshi Era of Japan's history, wherein the country continued performing rigorous reforms and prohibitions in order to keep its economy going and the Japanese population stable. In this age youth is valued above all else, with medical technology and nutrition being used to slow down the aging progress in all minors under the age of fifteen. Children are granted higher privileges than most adults, such as being treated with the utmost respect and pardoned for bad behavior, including the murder of adults. But these reforms also come with higher obligations, such as having mandatory arranged marriages planned since before a child's birth and being expected to return Japan to its former glory. In this society the Christmas holiday had been completely abolished do to it being considered an outdated custom which did not benefit Japan's future. All of these circumstances are what led to the return of Santa Claus in order to bring back hope and joy to Japan.
Kazushige is a member of the Sanda family, the Japanese descendants of Santa Claus. In each generation the Sanda family produce the next Santa Claus, a patron deity of children and hope for the future. Kazushige Sanda grew up on tales about his ancestors and the role they played. He was likewise educated on the various powers that the Santa Claus possess and of the various other descendants of holiday gods. His mother had been the previous Santa, and as such had been hunted down by the Red Coat Brigade, a paramilitary and exorcist syndicate which targeted holiday gods in order to obtain their powers for national security purposes. Whether he wanted to or not, Kazushige was expected to take up his heritage and restore Christmas in Japan by empowering the youth by granting their wishes and giving them hope.
Appearance[]
Sanda, in his Santa Claus form, wears a red hooded cloak or jacket with white stripes on the shoulders, emphasizing a bold, streetwear style. The hood covers most of his head, revealing only a rugged, intense face with a fierce expression. His eyes are shadowed, giving him a menacing look. Beneath the cloak, he wears a black outfit with a utility belt, adding to his tough, warrior-like presence. His forearms are wrapped, and his hands are gloved, while his pants are loose and dark, ending just below the knee. His feet are wrapped in traditional, ninja-like footwear, which leaves his toes exposed, enhancing his combat-ready look. Snowflakes drift around him, and his stance is dynamic, suggesting movement and power.
Personality[]
Sanda is like most of his age and likes chatting with his classmates. Fitting his petite size, he is a bit shy.
Power and Ability[]
- Indomitable Will: Kazushige possesses an unbreakable spirit. No matter the odds or how dire the situation becomes, he never gives up. His determination often inspires others and allows him to push beyond normal human limits.
- Cleverness: He is highly intelligent and strategic, capable of analyzing opponents and situations quickly. His clever thinking helps him find unconventional solutions in battle and leadership.
- Hand-to-Hand Combat: Kazushige is a skilled fighter trained in physical combat. He can face powerful supernatural beings using both raw strength and refined technique.
- Santa Claus Transformation: His signature ability allows him to transform into a “Santa Form,” granting him immense strength, durability, and access to his Christmas-related powers. This form symbolizes the spirit of generosity and hope.
- Immortality (supposed): According to Mr. Oshibu, Santa Claus is immortal and can live forever.
- Superhuman Physical Prowess: Even in his normal form, Kazushige has enhanced strength, speed, stamina, and endurance. In his Santa form, these traits are amplified to near-mythic levels.
- Ski Snowblades Creation: He can manifest skis or snowblades made of magical ice or energy, allowing him to travel rapidly across snow and perform acrobatic attacks during combat.
- Absorption of Belief: Kazushige’s power grows stronger through people’s belief in Santa Claus and the spirit of Christmas. The more people believe, the more powerful he becomes — both physically and spiritually. This energy can heal him, enhance his magic, or restore his strength.