Though viewed as a capable and successful ruler, Govinda's reign was interrupted by his temporary overthrow and usurpation by his younger brother.
However, he was overthrown within a year of his ascension by his brother, Chhatra Manikya, who claimed the throne with the aid of the Mughal Empire, forcing Govinda into exile.
[4] Govinda fled into the Chittagong Hill Tracts where, according to the Rajmala, he developed a friendship with Shah Shuja, the similarly exiled brother of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.
[6] To placate the Mughals, at whose behest his brother had become ruler, Govinda agreed to send five elephants annually as tribute to the emperor.
[6] Govinda generally maintained good relations with the empire, with Tripura being able to enjoy a de facto independent status.