Uma Dasgupta, The Iconic Durga From Pather Panchali, Passes Away At 84

Uma Dasgupta, the actress behind Durga in Pather Panchali, has passed away at 84. Her legacy in cinema and education lives on, despite her brief acting career.

Image Credits: IMDb

Uma Dasgupta, who brought life to the unforgettable character of Durga in Satyajit Ray's beloved film Pather Panchali, has passed away at 84. The news of her death, following a prolonged battle with cancer, was confirmed by actor and politician Chiranjeet Chakraborty. Uma breathed her last in a private hospital in Kolkata on Monday morning, surrounded by family.

Uma Dasgupta portrayed Durga, the elder sister of Apu, in Satyajit Ray's 1955 masterpiece, which remains etched in the hearts of cinephiles not just in India but around the world. While Pather Panchali was her only film role, her character had an undeniable impact on world cinema. The iconic scene where Durga and Apu run through a field of kaash flowers as a train passes by is still one of the most unforgettable images in Indian cinema. Her powerful performance in this single role cemented her place in the annals of film history, even decades after its release. Though she stepped away from acting shortly after the film, her impact endured.

A Life Away From The Limelight

Despite the fame that followed Pather Panchali, Uma Dasgupta chose a life away from the film industry, dedicating herself to teaching. In recent years, rumors had circulated that she lived in an old age home, but these were dismissed by Chakraborty, who confirmed that Uma had lived with her family in a housing complex until her passing.

A Farewell From Co-Star Subir Banerjee

Subir Banerjee, who played Apu in Pather Panchali, expressed his deep sorrow at Uma's passing, marking the end of an era for those who grew up watching the film. For many, Pather Panchali remains one of the most influential works in Indian cinema, and Uma's portrayal of Durga remains a cornerstone of its legacy.

Uma Dasgupta’s death marks the loss of one of Indian cinema's most cherished faces. Though her career spanned just one film, her role in Pather Panchali ensures that her legacy will continue to live on. Her decision to pursue a life of teaching after acting speaks volumes about her as a person, and she will be remembered not only for her role in cinema but also for her contributions to education and her quiet yet powerful influence on all who knew her.