The narrative follows the life of Siddhartha Gautama as he navigates the complex social and spiritual landscape of ancient India, ultimately seeking the path to enlightenment. Siddhartha encounters various figures representing the suffering and contradictions of human existence, forcing him to confront the limitations of his royal upbringing and the rigid caste structures of his time. The story utilizes a blend of historical dramatization and philosophical inquiry, presented through Tezuka's signature expressive visual style. The protagonist must reconcile his personal search for truth with the expectations of his family and the political instability of the surrounding kingdoms.

This work is widely regarded as a significant contribution to the medium of manga, blending historical biography with accessible storytelling. Readers often note the balance between the gravity of the subject matter and the artist's characteristic visual wit. The narrative is frequently praised for its ability to distill complex philosophical concepts into a format that remains engaging for a broad audience. It stands as a foundational text in the exploration of religious themes within graphic literature, maintaining its relevance through its focus on universal human experiences.