<b> <c c="#a00149">Mātali</c> </b> <br>The name given to the chariot driver of Sakka. The Mātali of the present age had a son, Sikhandhi, with whom Bhaddā Suriyavaccasā, daughter of Timbarū, was in love; but later she transferred her affections to Pañcasikha. <c c="#3b6bd3">DN.ii.268</c> Mātali is Sakka’s constant companion and accompanies him everywhere, more as a confidant than as a servant. <c c="#3b6bd3">SN.i.221</c> <c c="#3b6bd3">SN.i.224</c> <c c="#3b6bd3">SN.i.234ff.</c> <br>In the Mahāsamaya Sutta, <c c="#3b6bd3">DN.ii.258</c> Mātali is described as a Gandhabba chief, while in the Āṭānāṭiya Sutta <c c="#3b6bd3">DN.iii.204</c> he is mentioned among the chief Yakkhas to be invoked by followers of the Buddha in time of need.<br> <br> </deftext>