Ki Padmosusastro, born Suwardi on April 20, 1843, in Sraten, was a prominent Javanese writer, poet, and journalist. He was a student of the legendary literary figure R.Ng. Ronggowarsito and was known for his dedication to preserving and promoting Javanese literature, earning him the title “tiyang mardika ingkang marsudi kasusastran Jawi” (a free person devoted to Javanese literary arts).

He began his career as a Mantri Gedhong Kiwa (Head of the Left Wing Affairs) at the Kasunanan Surakarta Palace, later rising through the ranks to become Jaksa Anom (Junior Prosecutor) and eventually Penewu Jaksa. Alongside his bureaucratic roles, he pursued his passion in literature and became a prominent editor of the magazine "Bramartani", later founding the "Djawi Kandha" literary magazine in 1886.

Ki Padmosusastro was also a prolific writer, known for timeless works such as:

• Serat Rangsang Tuban

• Serat Prabangkara

• Serat Kandha Bumi

• Serat Kabar Angin (his most celebrated masterpiece)

These literary works showcased his original creativity and profound thinking, establishing him as one of the most productive and respected Javanese literary figures of his time.

In 1899, at the age of 56, he was appointed Chief of Affairs at the Radyapustaka Library in Surakarta and received the noble title Ngabehi Wirapustaka. Later, in 1919/1920, he was promoted to Panewu Garap (Head of Administration) with the title Ngabehi Prajapustaka.

Ki Padmosusastro passed away in 1926, at the age of 83, and was laid to rest in the Panularan Cemetery, Laweyan, Surakarta. His legacy lives on through his monumental contributions to Javanese literature and journalism.