Uma Dasgupta, a prominent figure in Indian cinema, passed away on November 18, 2024, after battling a prolonged illness. She was best known for her iconic portrayal of Durga Roy in Satyajit Ray’s classic 1955 film Pather Panchali. Her performance as the elder sister to Apu left an indelible mark on audiences and is considered one of the most memorable roles in the history of Indian cinema
Early Life and Career
Uma Dasgupta was only 14 years old when Satyajit Ray discovered her at a school event. Although she was not a professional actress, Ray was captivated by her natural charisma, which perfectly suited the role of Durga in his adaptation of Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay’s novel. Pather Panchali, known for its poignant portrayal of rural life, received global acclaim and catapulted Ray and his cast into the spotlight
Legacy Beyond Cinema
While her role in Pather Panchali was her most notable contribution to cinema, Uma Dasgupta chose a quieter path afterward, dedicating her life to education and becoming a teacher. She acted in a few other art films but remained widely recognized for her singular performance as Durga. Her work continues to resonate with audiences, and her portrayal of Durga remains a cornerstone of Indian film history
Passing and Tributes
Uma Dasgupta passed away in Kolkata and is survived by her daughter. Tributes have poured in from the film and literary community, with many celebrating her contribution to Indian cinema. Actor Chiranjit Chakraborty and others expressed their grief, while TMC MP Kunal Ghosh wrote a heartfelt note, saying, “Durga from Pather Panchali is now really gone”
Her performance in Pather Panchali not only marked a milestone in Indian cinema but also cemented her place as an unforgettable figure in the cultural narrative of Bengal and beyond. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations of artists and filmmakers.