He was the son of the brahmin Subandhu, and was so-called because he was brought safely into the world with the aid of physicians. When Tekicchakárí was grown up his father, by his wisdom and policy, incurred the jealousy and suspicion of Cánakka, minister of Candagutta, who had him thrown into prison. Tekicchakárí, in his fright, fled, and, taking refuge with a forest-dwelling monk, entered the Order and dwelt in the open air, never sleeping and heedless of heat and cold. Mára, in the guise of a cowherd, tried to tempt him, but he developed insight and became an arahant.
In the time of Vipassí Buddha he was born in a physician's family and cured a monk, named Asoka, and many others. Eight kappas ago he was a king named Sabbosadha (Thag.384-6; ThagA.i.440f).
He is probably identical with Tikicchaka of the Apadána (i.190).