Did Naruto Ever Notice That Hinata Likes Him?

The Chunin Exams, the Pain Arc, and the The Last: Naruto the Movie all paint a complex picture of Naruto and Hinata's relationship. Despite popular belief, many fans and even some canonical events suggest that Naruto was aware of Hinata's feelings for him, though his own heart belonged elsewhere.

Chunin Exams: Initial Impressions

During the Chunin Exams, Hinata fights Neji Hyuga and showcases her determination, impressing Naruto. He admires her bravery and skill, but at this point, his focus is elsewhere. However, even in these early interactions, Naruto did not miss Hinata's subtle glances and romantic gestures. His attention was primarily on Sasuke and the power of the Kyuubi, which had a significant impact on his journey.

Pain Arc: A Critical Confession

During the Pain Arc, a pivotal moment comes when Hinata steps in to protect Naruto from Pain. She confesses her love for him, saying, 'I have always admired you,' demonstrating the depth of her feelings. This event serves as a turning point, showing Naruto that Hinata truly cares for him. Despite this, Naruto ignores her confession, perhaps due to his emotional turmoil and dedication to his mission.

The Last: Naruto the Movie

The Last: Naruto the Movie offers a definitive moment where Naruto finally acknowledges his feelings for Hinata. He realizes how much she has been there for him all along and reciprocates her love, culminating in their eventual marriage. This movie provides a clear resolution to their long journey of understanding and recognition.

Truth Be Told: Naruto Always Knew

Contrary to the theories and possibilities that exist within the fan community, the truth is that Naruto always knew that Hinata loved him. Evidence from the series suggests that Naruto was capable of recognizing love, both romantic and platonic. During the Pain Arc, Hinata's confession was clear and direct, yet Naruto chose to ignore it. This decision might have been due to his still developing feelings for Sakura, a more current and immediate love interest.

After witnessing Neji's death during a battle where Naruto held Neji in his arms, Naruto commented on how much Hinata loved Neji. However, he then proclaimed his feelings for Sakura in front of Minato, further emphasizing his current emotional state. Uzumaki Naruto chose to continue pursuing Sakura, settling for Hinata only because Sakura had rejected him.

This narrative arc is a testament to character development and the complexity of human emotions. While Naruto's journey was often driven by his mission and personal growth, his interactions with Hinata allowed for moments of reflection and emotional clarity. The acknowledgment of his feelings for Hinata in The Last: Naruto the Movie provides a satisfying conclusion to this enduring relationship.

Conclusion

The relationship between Naruto and Hinata is a rich tapestry of love, recognition, and personal development. While Naruto's journey may not have always aligned perfectly with Hinata's feelings, the series ultimately provides a clear affirmative answer to the question of whether Naruto knew about Hinata's love for him. The recognition and eventual reciprocation of these feelings serve as a powerful lesson in the journey of self-discovery and the importance of true love.