Raibaghini

Maharani Bhavashankari (Maharanī Bhavaśaṅkarī) was a ruler of Bhurishreshtha kingdom of Bengal. After her husband's death, she ruled the country as the Queen Regent. She was associated with Baro-Bhuyan. After her death, Mughal Empire ruled her dynasty.

Early Life and Background

Bhavashankari, also known as Raibaghini, was a prominent queen of the Bhurishrestha Kingdom in Bengal during the 16th century. She was the wife of Maharaja Rudranarayan and played a crucial role in defending her kingdom against external invasions. Born into a noble family, she was trained in warfare, administration, and governance from an early age.

Her father, a military commander of Bhurishrestha, ensured she received rigorous training in swordsmanship, archery, and horse riding. In addition to her martial prowess, Bhavashankari was well-versed in statecraft, politics, and religious philosophy. She was also a devotee of Goddess Chandi and built several temples dedicated to the deity.

Marriage and Rise to Power

Bhavashankari was married to Maharaja Rudranarayan, the ruler of Bhurishrestha. Her military skills and intelligence impressed the king, and she soon became an influential figure in the royal court. She actively participated in governance and military campaigns alongside her husband.

Following Maharaja Rudranarayan’s untimely death, Bhavashankari assumed the responsibility of ruling the kingdom. The period following her husband’s demise was turbulent, as Bhurishrestha faced threats from both internal conspiracies and external invasions, particularly from the Pathan warlords and Afghan chieftains who sought to dominate Bengal.

Military Campaigns and Resistance Against Pathan Forces

One of Bhavashankari’s greatest achievements was her successful resistance against the resurgence of the Pathan forces in Bengal, led by the Lohani Sultans and their allies. She mobilized her army and led them personally in battles, demonstrating exceptional strategic acumen.

Her most notable military engagement was the Battle of Bashuri, where she defeated the Pathan invaders attempting to seize control of Bhurishrestha. She employed guerrilla warfare tactics, fortified key regions, and effectively utilized war elephants, cavalry, and archers in battle. Her leadership ensured the continued sovereignty of her kingdom against foreign aggressors.

Alliances with the Mughals

Bhavashankari’s valor and military success gained recognition from the Mughal Emperor Akbar. The Mughals, who were also engaged in suppressing Afghan rebellions in Bengal, saw her as a powerful ally. She was honored with the title “Raibaghini” (Royal Tigress) for her fierce resistance against the Pathans. Under her rule, Bhurishrestha maintained its autonomy while forging strategic alliances with the Mughal Empire.

Legacy and Influence

Bhavashankari’s rule left an enduring impact on Bengal’s history. She became a symbol of resistance against foreign dominance and the preservation of Hindu sovereignty in the region. Her successful military campaigns and wise governance ensured Bhurishrestha remained a formidable power.

Even today, she is revered as a legendary warrior queen, and her legacy continues to inspire generations. The Raibaghini Temple in Udaynarayanpur, Howrah, stands as a testament to her contributions and bravery.

Her life has been immortalized in folklore, regional literature, and recently in cinema, bringing renewed attention to her extraordinary story. Bhavashankari remains one of the greatest warrior queens of Bengal, remembered for her courage, leadership, and dedication to her people.

References

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Rulers of Bengal
Indian female royalty
Indian women in war
Hindu monarchs