It's truly sad watching Apu go through what he does in _Aparajito_. The movie really gets at the complicated feelings involved when someone is maturing, something everyone can understand. There’s a constant push and pull between wanting to shield family while also needing to move forward on one’s own. The young Apu, full of plans because of his schooling, seems certain he's headed toward some kind of understanding. His mother, even though she’s hurting, tries to maintain her dignity as she sees him moving away from her. This sad and occasionally frustrating relationship serves as a strong reminder that when we move on thinking we have all the answers, those who are left behind can only hope for a brief acknowledgment. The film is exceptionally well-made, deeply thoughtful, and visually stunning. Ray manages to show life’s gentle, temporary moments with an artistic sensibility, encouraging viewers to consider their own lives and how important these little things are. It highlights the fact that sometimes the most significant events happen in very subtle ways.

Source on TMDB