Uma Dasgupta, who immortalised the role of Durga in Satyajit Ray’s masterpiece film ‘Pather Panchali’ died at a private hospital in Kolkata on Monday at the age of 84, family sources said.

Dasgupta, who had been suffering from cancer for a long time, is survived by her daughter, they said.

At the age of 14, Uma Dasgupta was cast in the role of Durga in Pather Panchali, an adaptation of Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay’s novel.

Her portrayal of the character won the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Notable scenes, such as running through the kash flowers with her brother Apu to watch a passing train, getting drenched in the rain and picking mangoes in an orchard after a nor’wester, are among the most memorable moments of her performance.

These scenes contributed significantly to the emotional depth and universal appeal of the film.

Uma Dasgupta was noticed by Ray during her stage performance as a child artist at a school function and the director got in touch with her school and family.

Despite the worldwide acclaim and applause for her role in 'Pather Panchali', she was never seen in any other film later on.

She was a teacher by profession.