The son of a setthi in Sávatthi. When he grew up his mother proposed to find him a wife, but on account of his 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 Vipassí's time he had been a householder and had made offering to Vipassí of perfumed water and fragrant powder.
Thirty-one kappas ago he was a king named Sugandha. Átuma is probably identical with Gandhodakiya Thera of the Apadána. Ap.i.157-8.