Naruto is an ongoing Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Masashi Kishimoto. The plot tells the story of Naruto Uzumaki, an adolescent ninja who constantly searches for recognition and aspires to become a Hokage, the ninja in his village that is acknowledged as the leader and the strongest of all.

Sakura Haruno is a fictional character in the Naruto manga and anime series created by Masashi Kishimoto. Sakura has become the series’ female lead, although she was not immediately intended for the role. Kishimoto has had difficulty in drawing her, resulting in Kishimoto inadvertently emphasizing certain parts of her appearance, including her large forehead.

Created by Masashi Kishimoto, Gaara is the fictional character from the Naruto manga and anime series. Gaara was designed as a foil to the series’ titular character, Naruto Uzumaki,. They were born through similar circumstances, but somehow develop vastly different personalities as they deal with their troubled upbringing.

Gaara was initially introduced as an antagonist and Naruto’s rival. Both of them eventually develop a bond as kindred spirits and become close friends as the series progresses.