Manikarna lost her mom at the young age of four and was raised by her dad who worked in the court of Peshwa of Bithoor. The Peshwa was attached to her and raised Manikarna like his own little girl. 

She had a fairly unusual childhood for a young lady. At the point when most young ladies were being prepared to manage homegrown duties and be acceptable spouses, Manikarna was adapting horseback riding, fencing and shooting with her cherished companions, Nana Sahib and Tatya Tope.

Actually, she was likewise bestowed training alongside her two companions, something that was uncommon for the ladies of the time.