Kushana is undeniably one of the most compelling figures in Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, a landmark anime film that made waves when it premiered in 1984. As a princess hailing from the powerful kingdom of Torumekia, Kushana plays a pivotal role in shaping the story’s central conflict. Her decisions set off a chain reaction, igniting tensions between warring factions all struggling to survive in a world on the brink. In many ways, it’s Kushana’s actions that push the narrative forward, ultimately forcing Nausicaä to step in and try to prevent an impending environmental and humanitarian catastrophe.

Now, when we look at Kushana more closely, it becomes clear that she’s far from a one-dimensional antagonist. She’s a layered character—driven, yes, but also deeply aware of the stakes. Kushana is a pragmatic leader, unafraid to make bold moves or take calculated risks to secure her people’s future. But beyond her ambition, there’s a quiet sense of duty and even compassion that peeks through. Despite her royal status, she doesn’t turn a blind eye to suffering. Instead, she shoulders the weight of leadership with a mix of strength and responsibility, making tough calls because she believes they’re necessary.

Throughout the film, Kushana finds herself at odds with multiple forces—the mysterious Ohm, the volatile Tolmekian military, and even allies who question her methods. Her pursuit of power and control isn’t born purely out of ego; rather, it stems from a desperate need to protect her kingdom in a world where resources are dwindling and survival is uncertain. While some may see her tactics as harsh or even ruthless, the film invites us to consider the complexity behind those choices. Kushana isn’t just causing chaos—she’s trying to impose order in a collapsing world.

And speaking of personality, Kushana stands out as a textbook example of an ENTJ—often dubbed “The Commander.” From her strategic mindset to her no-nonsense approach, Kushana embodies the traits of this type. She’s decisive, goal-oriented, and naturally steps into leadership roles without hesitation. Whether she’s rallying troops or navigating political intrigue, her ability to think several steps ahead makes her a formidable presence. That said, her assertiveness can sometimes come across as overbearing. She expects excellence from others, often forgetting that not everyone shares her intensity. Still, her confidence and vision are exactly what the moment demands—even if they ruffle a few feathers along the way.

When we shift to the Enneagram, Kushana fits snugly into Type 8: “The Challenger.” This makes perfect sense given her relentless drive for autonomy and control. As a military leader, she refuses to be dominated or manipulated. She confronts threats head-on, unshaken by danger or opposition. But beneath that tough exterior lies a deep commitment to justice and protection—especially for those under her command. Yes, she can be confrontational, even intimidating when crossed, but her aggression usually stems from a place of principle rather than pure dominance.

In the end, Kushana’s journey reflects the challenges of wielding power with integrity. While her MBTI and Enneagram typings aren’t definitive labels, they do offer valuable insight into her character. Kushana from Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind emerges not just as a strong female figure in anime history, but as a nuanced portrayal of leadership—one marked by courage, conviction, and the constant struggle to balance strength with empathy. With growth and self-awareness, characters like Kushana remind us that true power isn’t just about control, but about responsibility.