While season 1 of The Mandalorian was based on Mando’s and Grogu, his force-sensitive son’s journey, The focus of season 2 was on something more internal. As Mando was a founding, he learned that he was adopted into a strict Mandalorian sect, Children Of The Watch. His actions throughout season 2 compelled him out of the Mandalorian community as he grew up. While looking for Jedi, Mando realized some harsh truths regarding his code of conduct.
But why did he take his helmet off? He swore never to take off his helmet as a Child Of The Watch, but later, he had to do this twice for Groju’s sake. He took off his helmet for the first time to find Groju’s location, which helped him pass through an imperial soldier. And the second time, he removed his helmet when Groju had to wish him goodbye before leaving with Luke Skywalker.
Both the times, when Mandi took his helmet off, he broke his religious vows, as he prioritized Groju over his faith.
Watch the scene of Mando taking his helmet off:
What Was A Major Shift For Mando?
In episode 5 of “The Book Of Boba Fett,” there were no attempts made by Mando to hide that he took off his helmet for Groju, breaking his religious vows. The Armorer then declared that he did not belong to the Mandalorian sect anymore. This part was a significant shift for Mando, as he also asked for forgiveness but was told that the only way to be absolved was via “living waters beneath the Mandalore mines.” Of course, Mando did not agree to that and took a flight to Tatooine instead.
What Did He Do Next?
The answer to this is simple. He did what Mando had always done: forge his own path. He metaphorically nailed the 95 theses to the door and a new faith named Mandalorian Lutheranism, similar to his old sect, keeping its core elements but more welcoming than the conservative one.
The Disney Angle
As necessary, it was for Mando to take off his helmet; it catered to Disney’s own needs as well. While The Mandalorian was still finding reasons for him to take his helmet off, it gradually increased the number of times it happened. This means that Disney can show their star’s face more and more, which in turn can give a more significant ROI on Pedro Pascal, who himself is an immensely talented actor who’ll get more chances to evolve. Though the actor is doing his absolute best with the helmet on as well.
Take Away
While Mando played just a supporting role in season 2 of The Book Of Boba Fett, once getting the spotlight back in the next season, we can expect more explorations regarding the Mandalorian religion and creed in an instantly changing galaxy. Maybe, this rebellious act will even have rubbed off to Groju, leading him to reform the Jedi.
