DAN DADAN【Ch.125】What is “Kawabanga”?

Kyle Scouter Podcast

Welcome to Kyle Scouter Podcast.

I am Ani, Kyle’s brother, and together we run this channel.

Feel free to call me Ani.

In the past, I used to upload videos on TikTok and YouTube.

Recently, I’ve transitioned to posting podcasts,

inspired by the vast world of captivating manga and anime.

Creators pour their passion into these works,

and we know you guys crave a deeper understanding of the content.

I’m here to delve into the nuances of the Japanese language, explore the cultural background, and discuss the intentions behind the creations of the artists and animators, among other things.

Please watch this too!

Please sit back and enjoy our show.

Today, we’re diving into DANDADAN, focusing on the latest chapter, 125.

Have you had a chance to read DANDADAN?

It’s a riveting manga.

If not, we recommend catching up on Manga+ before tuning in.

It’s free to read it.

©龍幸伸／集英社

This narrative fuses ghosts, monsters, aliens, teenage romance, and grand battles in a captivating way.

The blend of these diverse elements in this manga is truly astounding.

For our fans abroad, untangling the web of Japanese memes might be a bit daunting.

My aim is to unfold the wonder of this work for everyone.

It’s my conviction that Yukinobu Tatsu Sensei stands as one of the most notable mangakas in Japan.

Spoiler Warning!

This podcast contains spoilers.

Please read it first, then come back!

We highly recommend that you follow along with the manga as you listen.

The previous episode delved into Rin’s past and her encounters with the Ombudsman.

Due to family issues, she was unable to attend the audition, despite her deep desire to participate.

Her past was truly heartbreaking.

It’s time to delve into the latest chapter, 125.

Her past was heavily shadowed by the tragic loss of her close friend Mai in a car accident.

Though it wasn’t her fault, she felt an immense sense of responsibility.

Following this, Mai became an ombudsman.

Subsequently, Seiko shared her insight on this matter.

Hayashi and Dashi are key terms here, but they can be tricky to grasp.

I am here to break them down for you.

Be sure to check out my blog where I’ve posted some references to enhance your understanding.

Let’s dive in!!!

Pages 1~7

Discussing events from Rin’s past,

Despite no fault of her own, Rin shouldered the guilt for the passing of Mai and her mother.

“Responsible” is the word that epitomizes Rin.

This trait has been portrayed numerous times,

be it cooking for her grandmother, doing the dishes, or handling laundry in her mother’s stead.

She’s truly remarkable.

Now, turn your attention to the first two panels on page 2.

©龍幸伸／集英社

The emotion encapsulated in these drawings moved me deeply.

Upon hearing the phone ring, Rin wipes away her tears with her sleeve before answering the call.

Note:

At that time, Rin was in the third grade of elementary school, making her around 10 years old.

Yet, her demeanor is so mature.

In just two panels, her sense of responsibility shines through.

Though space on a manga page is limited, Taki Sensei masterfully conveys Rin’s personality without the need for words. Exceptional creativity.

Pages 8-15

The focus is on the Ombudsman and the presented solution.

I’d like to discuss three topics:

1)Mai’s family name: Kawabanga

2)Hayashi(囃子)

3)Dashi (山車)

First, let’s talk about “Kawabunga.”

©龍幸伸／集英社

It strikes as a peculiar family name to the Japanese ear.

I understand it’s challenging for overseas fans to discern what’s common and what’s not in Japan.

This family name is unheard of here.

So, it got us pondering, why Kawabanga?

I suspect “Kawabanga” is a play on the phrase from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Are you familiar with them?

It was a popular anime in the 90s.

“Cowabunga!” was a surfer’s exclamation.

It’s a signature line often uttered by the Turtle characters, especially Michelangelo.

Now, circling back to chapter 124, did you notice how the Ombudsman appeared? He seemed to have a shell on.

Taki Sensei had Seiko utter “Kawabanga” three times across two pages.

I believe this name holds significant meaning.

So, what’s unfolding next? Is Rin going to take up surfing?

Eagerly awaiting the next chapter.

Secondly, I’d like to delve into “Hayashi.”

©龍幸伸／集英社

I understand that the term “Hayashi band” might be unfamiliar to you, though you’ll find they’re quite remarkable.

Hayashi refers to the traditional music that elevates the ambiance of Noh and Kabuki performances, utilizing classic Japanese musical instruments such as the flute, drum, kotsuzumi & otsuzumi (small and large drums), shamisen, among others.

This musical style graces many cultural scenes, including kabuki theater and festivals.

Though this isn’t a Japanese history lesson, if you’re intrigued, I’d recommend a quick search online for more details.

Now, transitioning into the modern band realm,

cast your eyes on the manga panel highlighting Hayashi.

Japanese followers have identified a striking similarity to a certain band.

That band is X JAPAN.

They are one of the popular bands in Japan.

Have you heard of a band member’s name?

Yoshiki Hayashi.

Next up, Dashi.

©龍幸伸／集英社

A yatai is a cart that is paraded around during festivals, adorned with various decorations such as dolls and flowers.

It is seen as a place where gods descend (依り代: yorishiro), much like a portable shrine, acting as a vehicle for the sacred gods.

Its roots trace back over 1000 years ago, originating from the Heian era.

The Kyoto Gion festival and Hakata Gion festival are notably famous.

This is one emblematic representation of Japanese festivals.

Some festivals are extraordinarily vibrant.

I found the video on Youtube then I put it on my blog. Check it out!

Now, some of you might wonder about the difference between Mikoshi and Dashi. Both are famous and traditional.

Dashi is pulled along, while Mikoshi is carried by people.

Typically, Mikoshi is smaller than Dashi due to its being carried by hand.

The Dashi in DANDADAN is immense, isn’t it?

The purpose of Dashi is to invite gods down from heaven to earth for celebration, whereas the Mikoshi serves as a direct vehicle for the gods.

That sums up what Dashi is.

Currently, they are en route to the audition venue.

I’m filled with suspense, looking forward to seeing the developments with the Dashi.

Pages 16-20

The pace across these few pages is exhilarating.

The last page stands out remarkably.

The depiction of the monster nearly catching up to them is thrilling, and the meticulous detailing of the Dashi is striking, especially the blend of the Dashi and drums.