The Ash People are a brand new Na’vi clan introduced in Avatar 3: Fire and Ash, and they play a central role in the story’s conflict. Led by their olo’eykte (clan leader) Varang, played by Oona Chaplin, the Ash People—also known as the Mangkwan clan—are a tribe that has been hiding in the shadows during the events of the first two Avatar films[1][4]. Unlike the forest-dwelling Omatikaya or the water-adapted Metkayina, the Ash People are associated with volcanic regions, ash-covered landscapes, and a culture shaped by fire and destruction. Their very name hints at their connection to environments scarred by volcanic activity, and their appearance, rituals, and way of life are expected to reflect this harsh, fiery setting.
In Avatar 3, the Ash People emerge as a major force, allying themselves with the returning human antagonists, the Resources Development Administration (RDA), and Colonel Miles Quaritch[5]. This alliance marks a significant shift in the series’ dynamics, as it is the first time a Na’vi clan has openly sided with the human invaders against other Na’vi. The Ash People’s motivations for this alliance are not yet fully revealed, but early footage and discussions suggest that they may have suffered greatly in the past, possibly at the hands of other clans or due to environmental disasters, leading them to seek power and revenge[3]. Their arrival forces Jake Sully, Neytiri, and their family to confront not only the ongoing human threat but also a new, internal Na’vi conflict that threatens to tear Pandora apart.
The Ash People represent several important themes in the Avatar universe. First, they embody the idea that not all Na’vi are united in their resistance to humanity. While previous films emphasized the unity of Pandora’s indigenous people against a common enemy, the Ash People introduce the concept of division and internal strife. This reflects real-world histories where indigenous groups sometimes allied with colonizers against rival tribes, often due to past grievances or the promise of power. The Ash People’s alliance with the RDA challenges the notion of a monolithic “native” perspective and adds complexity to the moral landscape of the story.
Second, the Ash People symbolize the destructive potential of fire—both literally and metaphorically. Fire is a force of renewal in many ecosystems, but it can also cause devastation. The Ash People’s culture, likely shaped by living in volcanic regions, may view fire as a source of strength and transformation, even as it brings loss and pain. This duality is mirrored in their role in the story: they are both victims and aggressors, seeking to reclaim their place in the world while causing harm to others. Their actions, such as the burning of the Arane home tree, show their willingness to use destruction as a tool for change[3].
Third, the Ash People highlight the theme of cultural diversity among the Na’vi. Each clan in the Avatar series has adapted to its environment in unique ways, developing distinct languages, customs, and spiritual practices. The Ash People’s introduction expands this diversity, showing that Pandora’s inhabitants are not a single, homogeneous group but a collection of cultures with their own histories, values, and conflicts. This diversity enriches the world-building of the franchise and allows for deeper exploration of what it means to be Na’vi.
The conflict with the Ash People also serves as a turning point for the Sully family. After the loss of their eldest son, Neteyam, in Avatar: The Way of Water, Jake and Neytiri are grappling with grief and the need to protect their remaining children[1]. The emergence of the Ash People forces them to confront new enemies and make difficult choices about loyalty, justice, and survival. Neytiri, in particular, is shown to be more aggressive and protective, setting up a dramatic clash with Varang and her followers[1]. This personal and familial struggle is set against the backdrop of a larger war, with the fate of Pandora hanging in the balance.
The Ash People’s alliance with the RDA also raises questions about collaboration, betrayal, and the cost of survival. By joining forces with the humans, the Ash People gain access to advanced technology and weapons, but at the potential cost of their cultural identity and the well-being of their planet. This storyline invites viewers to consider the complexities of resistance and the moral ambiguities that arise in times of crisis. Are the Ash People traitors to their kind, or are they simply doing what they believe is necessary to survive and thrive? The film does not provide easy answers, instead presenting a nuanced portrayal of conflict and choice.
Visually, the Ash People are expected to stand out from other Na’vi clans. Their design likely incorporates elements inspired by volcanic landscapes—ash-gray skin, fiery patterns, and armor made from materials found in their harsh environment. Their rituals and weapons may also reflect their connection to fire, with ceremonies involving flames and combat styles that emphasize aggression and endurance. These details help to distinguish the Ash People as a unique and memorable addition to the Avatar universe.
In terms of the broader narrative, the Ash People’s introduction signals a shift in the series’ focus. While the first two films centered on the clash between Na’vi and humans, Avatar 3: Fire and Ash explores the fractures within Na’vi society itself. This internal conflict adds depth to the story, showing that the struggle for Pandora’s future is not just between natives and invaders, but also among the natives themselves. The Ash People’s actions force other clans to question their alliances, their values, and their understanding of Eywa, the guiding force of Pandora.
The Ash People also serve as a mirror for the human characters, particularly the RDA. Just as the humans are divided in their goals and methods, so too are the Na’vi. This parallelism underscores the idea that conflict is a universal experience, not limited to any one species or culture. By presenting the Ash People as complex, morally ambiguous figures, the film challenges viewers to empathize with characters who do not fit neatly into categories of “hero” or “villain.”
Ultimately, the Ash People are more than just new antagonists in Avatar 3: Fire and Ash. They represent the themes of division, resilience, and the transformative power of fire—both destructive and renewing. Their presence complicates the moral and emotional landscape of the story, forcing characters and audiences alike to confront difficult questions about identity, loyalty, and the cost of survival. As the Sully family faces this new threat, the fate of Pandora becomes even more uncertain, and the bonds between its people are tested as never before.
