Bharathari was the youngest son of king Gandharva Sen had two wives. Bharathari was born from the first wife and the second wife gave birth to Vikramaditya .

After the death of his father, Bharathari became the king since he was the eldest son. Later, he put his stepbrother Vikramaditya on the throne and lost interest in the welfare of the kingdom. He devoted his time to music, books, and the arts. He was also a great poet and a scholar of Sanskrit. When Vikramaditya saw Bharathari losing interest in the welfare of the people and the country, he urged him not to neglect his duties. Bharathari was furious and banished his stepbrother from the kingdom .

One day Bharathari found out that his wife was in love with the stable keeper. He became disillusioned and form that day onwards the king gave up all the pleasures of life. He began leading a holy life and chanting the name of Shiva. He realised that he had been selfish in thinking only about himself, and not about others.

In due course, he became free of worldly desires and attained Shiva tatta or complete self -knowledge. He followed the truth established in  the Vedas.

Bharathari is regarded as one of the most respected sages ancient India. He has always been praised by many sages and ascetics of India in different languages for his discipline and purity.