Uma Dasgupta – Actress Behind Pather Panchali’s Durga – Passes Away

A Titan of Indian Cinema

Uma Dasgupta, the actress who played the iconic role of Durga in Satyajit Ray's Pather Panchali (1955), passed away on Saturday, August 27, 2023, at the age of 88. Dasgupta's death is a significant loss to the Indian film industry and the global cinematic community.

Early Life and Career

Born in Kolkata, Dasgupta began her acting career in the early 1950s. Her performance in Pather Panchali, which was her debut film, brought her widespread recognition and critical acclaim. Dasgupta's portrayal of the innocent and resilient young girl Durga is considered one of the most iconic performances in Indian cinema history.

International Recognition

Pather Panchali was a critical and commercial success, winning the Palme d'Or at the 1955 Cannes Film Festival. Dasgupta's performance in the film earned her international recognition, and she went on to star in several other successful Indian films, including Aparajito (1956) and Apur Sansar (1959), the two sequels to Pather Panchali. In recent years, Dasgupta was awarded the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian honours.

Legacy

Dasgupta's legacy as an actress is cemented by her iconic role in Pather Panchali. Her performance as Durga remains a touchstone for aspiring actors and filmmakers alike. Dasgupta's death is a reminder of the enduring power of cinema and the impact that a single performance can have on generations of audiences.

Tributes

Tributes have poured in from across the Indian film industry and beyond, with many actors, directors, and critics expressing their condolences and praising Dasgupta's contribution to Indian cinema. The Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, said that Dasgupta's death was "an irreparable loss to the world of cinema." The government of India announced that Dasgupta would be given a state funeral.

Dasgupta's passing marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. She was a true pioneer and an inspiration to generations of actors and filmmakers. Her legacy will continue to inspire and enchant audiences for years to come.