Key insights
- Turbo Granny transformed into a Maneki-Neko doll after her defeat, but retained some powers.
- The doll's meaning shows a deeper, protective side of Turbo Granny for young girls.
- Turbo Granny's new role as a friendly ally and protector adds to the comedic impact of the series.
WARNING: The following contains spoilers for Dandadan Episode 8, “I've Got This Funny Feeling,” now streaming on Crunchyroll and Netflix.
Turbo Granny is one of the first frightening ghosts that Okarun and Momo Ayase have to face Dandadan Anime. Their abilities are particularly impressive because their enormous speed makes it difficult for any opponent to run away. However, not too long after Momo and Okarun's final battle with the Yokai, she ends up in a completely different form.
Shortly after the duo finds out that Turbo Granny has returned Dandadanshe quickly transforms into a new form: a Maneki Neko doll. With this transformation comes an entirely different beast for them to deal with. But how exactly did she get to this position and what does it mean for her future as a yokai spirit?

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How Turbo Grandma became a Maneki Neko doll
Your unexpected transformation
Many fans of the series may be wondering how exactly Turbo Granny became trapped inside a Maneki Neko doll that looks completely different than her original form. Most of the situation started when Okarun and Momo Ayase had their final battle with Turbo Granny in Season 1, Episode 4, “Alien Invasion.” Shortly after the duo retrieves Turbo Granny and the resident ghost from Shono City, they believe that the fearsome Yokai has officially been defeated as her crab-like form appears to crumble before them. However, this is ultimately not the case.
After their fight, Okarun quickly realizes that some of his “belongings” are still missing. Much to Momo and her grandmother's surprise, a quick look into Okarun's aura reveals that he is still possessed. Momo brings in a Maneki Neko doll and places a talisman on it, which immediately turns red and burns as soon as Momo removes the negative aura from Okarun. This negative aura soon takes over the Maneki Neko doll in front of him and runs away.
The possessed doll is soon revealed to be Turbo Grandma, as evidenced by the very obvious tone of voice and threats towards the three heroes. Turbo Granny reveals that she entered astral form to possess Okarun and had to wait a while before she could fully recover from the battle. Unfortunately for Turbo Granny, however, her powers remain in Okarun while only her consciousness was placed in the Maneki-Neko doll, leaving her powerless against the group, especially as her powers grow stronger.
What is the significance of the doll?
The Maneki Neko doll is a symbol of good luck
The Maneki Neko doll, also known as the beckoning cat, is known as a traditional Japanese figure that is said to bring good luck and wealth to its owner. Aside from Turbo Granny's initial fearsome form as a yokai spirit, this shift to a protective and happy being shows that the character is much deeper than just another antagonist.
After her “defeat” in the final battle, Turbo Granny is said to have taken up residence in the tunnel, as many young girls were kidnapped there against their will and killed in horrific ways. Turbo Granny wanted to protect these girls and provide them with comfort during their stay in the tunnel, hoping to ease their transition into the afterlife. As Turbo Granny transitions to her Maneki-Neko form, she becomes more of an ally to the duo, trying to continue protecting Momo in particular and offering help to the two as a Maneki-Neko would.

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The current role of the turbo grandma
Where Turbo Granny is in the group
Now that Turbo Granny has a much cuter and smaller form, her role has changed significantly. She is no longer a fearsome force intent on destroying both Okarun and Momo, but rather a relatively harmless puppet who occasionally serves as comedic relief, assisting Okarun and Momo in their continued battle against other ghosts and aliens. While this may not be the role she ever imagined, her protection of Momo symbolizes a weakness in her heart and proves that she was never just an antagonist to be defeated.
Soon, in Season 1, Episode 8, “She's a Little Crazy,” Turbo Granny seems to have become part of the family, sitting at the table slurping ramen with the rest of the gang. Although she was originally only there to regain her powers and help return Okarun's belongings, she seems to have quickly taken on the role of friend and protector of the household. Although she definitely still speaks rudely to the group, this adds to the comedic effect given her small and unassuming stature.
Can Turbo Granny return to her previous form?
Can she regain her full powers?
Some fans may be wondering if it's possible for Turbo Granny to return to her original form before taking on the Maneki Neko doll. Although she remained in her current Maneki Neko doll form in the anime and most likely won't change anytime soon, it is still possible for her to return to her original body. Her current situation requires her to remain in the doll while she attempts to return Okarun's belongings so she can get her powers back. However, in her current form, she seems to have become the show's mascot, so the chances of her returning anytime soon are unlikely.
It is also possible that Turbo Granny gets her powers back but still retains the Maneki-Neko form, as she is much more welcoming to most people, including the gang. It also has great comedic impact and allows her to remain in the group as an additional member. Sure, it might not be her preferred form, but it would certainly give her an advantage when it comes to getting her way in the future.
Dandadan is now available to stream on Crunchyroll, Hulu and Netflix.