Born Bhavashankari Chauduri, she was a Brahmin by birth. Growing up, she took lessons in diplomacy, politics, sociology, philosophy and even theology. Her father also trained her in swordsmanship and archery.

She married Rudranarayan, the king of Bhurishrestha and began to assist the king in his royal duties. She upgraded and modernised military infrastructure. She built new garrison fortresses.

When her son Prince Pratapnarayan was only five, King Rudranarayan passed away. From their base in Orissa, the Pathans, who were routed by Mughals, under the leadership of Osman Khan were planning to invade Bengal. Osman Khan himself, along with his most trusted soldiers, set out to capture Bhavashankari in the guise of Hindu monks. Another contingent of 200 Pathan soldiers followed in disguise. Osman’s forces were spotted at Amta and the queen summoned a detachment from the nearest garrison. In the ensuing battle led by the queen, the Pathans were decimated and Osman fled. Akbar, wary of a Pathan resurgence in Bengal, decided to strengthen the alliance with Bhurishrestha. He sent Man Singh to Rani Bhavanishankari and bestowed the title of Raibaghini on her. Mughals never interfered with her kingdom again.