Bandaka appears as an arrogant archer contending for Princess Yashodara's affection. He confronts Siddhartha in combat to win her hand but is defeated. After Siddhartha departs the palace seeking enlightenment, Bandaka exploits the prince's absence to persuade Siddhartha's father into naming him heir to the Shakyan throne. Despite securing this political power, he cannot gain Yashodara's favor. Bandaka later marries a noblewoman and fathers a son named Devadatta. His life ends in battle, killed while fighting the invading Kosalan army.