Rani Bhabani

Rani Bhabani managed the vast Rajshahi zamindari (large land estate) most efficiently and effectively for over four decades. She was famous for her sagacity, generosity and extensive social works.

Rani became the virtual zamindar of Rajshahi in 1748, after the death of her husband Raja Ramkanta. She successfully managed the vast zamindari and maintained cordial relations with the nawabs of Bengal. She led a very austere and religious life and had gave large portion of her zamindari to the Brahmins as Lakhiraj (rent free lands) for their maintenance and other charitable activities. She also established about 380 shrines, guesthouses etc, built many temples in different parts of the country and endowed money and lands. She used her money for the improvement of infrastructure, medical care, and for the spread of education.