Since its debut on September 21, 1999, Masashi Kishimoto’s legendary Naruto manga has secured its place as one of the greatest pillars in anime and manga history.
Despite its outstanding story and decades-long influence, the franchise has long struggled with its female characters. They often remain overshadowed, underdeveloped, or sidelined compared to their male counterparts.
However, the latest chapter in the ninja saga marks a dramatic shift. Through the sequel Boruto: Two Blue Vortex, the creators are making every effort to correct past mistakes. By placing Uchiha Sarada at the heart of major plot developments, Naruto finally introduces its strongest female hero in 27 years.
Fixing past mistakes: Uchiha Sarada’s rise
Looking back at the original Naruto series, the imbalance in character development is clear. Even within the legendary Team 7, Kishimoto gave Naruto and Sasuke overwhelming focus, while Haruno Sakura was often relegated to the sidelines and faced criticism from fans. This unfairness is exactly what artist Mikio Ikemoto and the creative team aim to fix in Boruto.
While Boruto and Kawaki dominated the early parts of the sequel, Sarada has now surged forward in Boruto: Two Blue Vortex. Her role has even started to overshadow Kawaki’s and stands on equal footing with the protagonist, Uzumaki Boruto.
Recently, chapters 34 and especially 35, published in V-Jump issue 7, confirmed Sarada as the central figure leading a brand-new story arc. This narrative privilege is something neither Haruno Sakura nor any previous female character has ever achieved.
A risky plan and a dark, promising arc
In chapter 35, fans witnessed a bold move from the Uchiha heiress. To infiltrate the Shinju clan’s stronghold, Sarada and Boruto devised a dangerous “reverse trap” plan.
Boruto says: “Sarada, I want you to let them capture you. He might take you straight to their base. But don’t worry, I’ll come to you using the signs I just gave you.”
Sarada replies: “I understand, a reverse trap.”
This plan means Sarada will deliberately allow Code to kidnap her, creating an opening for Boruto to launch an attack from within. However, the journey is far from easy. Boruto also warns her with a haunting message hinting at a dark future ahead: “This is a risky plan, so anything can happen. Just remember one more thing, Sarada, never lose hope. No matter what happens.”
Overcoming adversity: Mangekyo Sharingan limits and her father’s shadow
The current storyline also pushes Sarada into harsh physical and mental trials. Awakening and using the ultimate Mangekyo Sharingan to fight Shinju clones in previous arcs has severely damaged her eyesight, putting her at risk of permanent blindness.
The new arc centers on Hidari, a clone born from her father, Uchiha Sasuke’s body. By venturing into danger, Sarada seeks not only a cure for her eyes but also aims to rescue her father from a tragic fate. This deeply emotional relationship promises explosive chapters where Sarada can showcase both her strength and remarkable psychological depth.
Carrying the legacy and future as the first Uchiha Hokage
The biggest reason Uchiha Sarada stands out as the franchise’s best female character is her life goal. Moving beyond simple romantic plots, her ultimate aim is to inherit Naruto Uzumaki’s will and become the next Hokage of the Leaf Village.
“I’ve made up my mind. I want to follow the Seventh Hokage’s path and become the Hokage of the village.”, Sarada Uchiha declares her dream.
If she succeeds, Sarada will make history as the first Uchiha to hold this powerful position. She carries the immense legacy of her father Sasuke and her uncle Itachi Uchiha.
Of course, the path to replacing the Seventh Hokage is never easy. To reach that role, Sarada must continue training and growing every day under the guidance of veteran ninjas, alongside peers like Boruto, Kawaki, and Himawari. The creators’ serious investment is shaping Sarada into a true female powerhouse, a strong inspirational symbol for a new generation of readers.