The son of a millionaire (seṭṭhi) in Sāvatthi. When he grew up his mother proposed to find him a wife, but on account of his potential (upanissaya), he left the world and was ordained. His mother tried to entice him back but he declared his great determination and, developing insight, became an Arahant (Thag.v.72; ThagA.i.160).

In the time of Vipassī Buddha he had been a householder and had made offering to Vipassī of perfumed water and fragrant powder.

Thirty-one world-cycles ago he was a king named Sugandha. Ātuma is probably identical with Gandhodakiya Thera of the Apadāna. Ap.i.157-8.