Science Saru's latest anime, Jaadugar: A Witch in Mongolia, emerges as a promising addition to the genre of historical fiction. Based on Tomato Soup’s A Witch’s Life in Mongol, the series, which began airing on July 4, is set in 13th-century Persia and approaches its setting with considerable nuance and sensitivity. The anime delivers a compelling narrative about a young woman's resilience amidst wartime horrors, while also celebrating the rich tapestry of everyday life, all brought to life with breathtaking animation and a disorienting yet comforting cartoonish aesthetic.
The story begins in AD 1213, with an orphaned child named Sitara sold into slavery to a widow named Fatima in the city of Tus. Despite the backdrop of the Islamic Golden Age, Sitara initially resists education, yearning for her lost mother. Fatima’s son, Muhammad, gently encourages Sitara, highlighting how knowledge can provide comfort and open new opportunities. This spark ignites a passion for learning in Sitara, particularly in mathematics and astrology. This period of relative peace is shattered eight years later by the invasion of the Mongols.
Jaadugar excels in historical and cultural accuracy, presenting a tactile depiction of Tus before the Mongol conquest led by Genghis Khan. The city is portrayed with bustling bazaars, vibrant produce, and diverse populations, with Science Saru employing a fluid, picturebook-esque color palette to imbue these mundane moments with beauty. The anime thoughtfully integrates cultural elements such as the Adhan and the practice of Iddah into the characters' daily lives, reflecting the Quran's emphasis on the pursuit of knowledge. The invasion starkly highlights a cultural divide, as the residents of Tus do not understand the invaders, amplifying the fear and alienation.
Following the devastation of Tus, Sitara is taken to the Mongolian court. Here, she leverages her knowledge to navigate a hostile environment where her education and outspokenness are met with suspicion and ostracization. Despite being labeled a "witch" for defying traditional norms, Sitara engages in careful politicking while suppressing her rage. Her relationship with the Mongols is complex; while they are the source of her trauma, she must understand their cultural traditions to identify their vulnerabilities. This involves forming strategic alliances and developing an earnest interest in their culture, separating individual motivations from the broader context of the invasion.
Jaadugar distinguishes itself by using an expressionistic art style within a gritty, realistic setting, offering a whimsical perspective on historical fiction. Shifting color tones effectively build tension, contrasting the safety of the court with the unpredictability of the battlefield. The series adeptly balances visual and thematic storytelling, conveying a great deal through both its imagery and narrative.
Though still unfolding, Jaadugar: A Witch in Mongolia has established itself as a remarkable historical anime. It appeals to viewers who appreciate culturally rich narratives grounded in real history, featuring multidimensional characters. The anime presents a compelling revenge tale, positing knowledge as a covert weapon capable of dismantling formidable historical empires from within.
Jaadugar: A Witch in Mongolia is available to stream on Crunchyroll.
