MARGAO
Goa’s tiatr fraternity and the wider Konkani cultural community are mourning the death of veteran tiatrist Tito Mathias Estaphania Preto, popularly known as Titta Preto, one of the most respected figures on the Konkani stage.
Born on January 4, 1933, in Aldona, Titta Preto devoted nearly seven decades of his life to tiatr. He earned admiration as an actor, comedian, singer, writer and director, and played a major role in promoting Konkani theatre.
His journey in tiatr began in Mumbai, where he was inspired by leading artistes. He first stepped onto the stage at the age of 15 and soon became known for his natural acting skills and comic timing. His breakthrough came with the comedy Chikott Ani Pankott, which established him as a popular performer.
Over the years, he acted in several successful tiatrs, including Atanchim Kazaram, Soitananchim Tainnim, Pai Tum Chol Ghara, Mogak Lagon, Bombaikarachi Bail, Disgras and Kirmidoracho Xevott. He also appeared in Konkani films such as Nirmonn and Amchem Noxib.
Titta Preto received the Tiatr Academy Goa Lifetime Contribution to Tiatr Award in 2009 and was honoured by Kala Academy Goa and several cultural organisations for his contribution to Konkani theatre.
Paying tribute, Tiatr Academy Goa President Anthony Barbosa said Titta Preto’s dedication and passion inspired generations of artistes and that his contribution to tiatr would always be remembered.
Non-Tiatrists and Tiatristanchi Sonstha President Arnaldo Da Costa described him as an institution in Konkani theatre whose legacy would continue through the many artistes he inspired.
Tributes have poured in from across Goa, remembering Titta Preto as a humble performer and a true ambassador of Konkani culture.
