Legendary Bengali Actor Uma Dasgupta Passes Away
An Illustrious Career Spanning Decades
Indian cinema has lost a legendary figure with the passing of Uma Dasgupta, who played the iconic role of Durga in Satyajit Ray's masterpiece, Pather Panchali. Dasgupta, who was 84, breathed her last on 3rd February 2023, leaving behind a rich legacy that spans over six decades in the film industry. Born in Kolkata in 1938, Dasgupta made her acting debut in the 1955 film 'Sagar Sangamey'.From Durga to the Silver Screen
Uma Dasgupta's portrayal of Durga, the young protagonist in Pather Panchali, catapulted her to stardom and remains one of the most unforgettable characters in Indian cinema. Her natural performance captured the innocence and resilience of a young girl growing up in rural Bengal. The film, which was part of Ray's Apu trilogy, won numerous awards and is considered a cinematic masterpiece.
A Versatile Performer
Beyond her iconic role in Pather Panchali, Uma Dasgupta showcased her versatility in a variety of roles throughout her career. She played a wide range of characters, from strong-willed women to gentle mothers, in both commercial and art-house films. Her notable performances include 'Mahanagar' (1963), 'Agantuk' (1991), and 'Ek Din Pratidin' (1979). Dasgupta also worked with renowned directors such as Mrinal Sen and Tapan Sinha, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
Official Statement from Film Industry
The film industry in India expressed its condolences at the passing of Uma Dasgupta. The West Bengal Film Directors' Association stated, "We are deeply saddened by the demise of Uma Dasgupta, an outstanding actress who made immense contributions to Bengali cinema. Her work will continue to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers." Renowned filmmaker Goutam Ghose remarked, "Uma Dasgupta was a true legend whose natural acting style brought authenticity to every role she played. Her passing is a great loss to the world of cinema."
