Pedro Xavier D'Costa (né da Costa; 8 September 1929 – 12 October 2007), known professionally as Prem Kumar, was an Indian actor, playwright, theatre director, lyricist and composer known for his work in Hindi, Konkani films, and tiatr productions.

With D'Sa's support, D'Costa successfully premiered his inaugural tiatr, titled Mhozo Put (My Son), in 1945 at the Princess Theatre Bhangwadi, Bombay.

[3] Following his debut, D'Costa took on various minor roles in Hindi movies such as Mera Salam (1957), Bandish (1955), Shaukeen, Hum Bhi Insan Hai, Sakhi, Bahadur (1953), and Hamara Hak before eventually returning to the Konkani theatrical tradition known as tiatr.

D'Costa's portrayal of a Muslim molvi (priest) in the film Hamara Hak garnered acclaim for his authentic delivery of Arabic dialogues, defying expectations as a Goan Catholic.

Proficient in the Konkani language and finding greater expressiveness in his native tongue, D'Costa abandoned Hindi films and dedicated himself to the development and growth of tiatr.

Writer Fausto V. da Costa states, D'Costa's tiatrs incorporated spectacular scenes reminiscent of movies, captivating audiences from all walks of life.

Combining engaging storylines, rich dialogues, and high literary standards, he addressed diverse themes of family, society, and religion in his productions.

[4] Fausto V. da Costa further writes, D'Costa's contributions extended beyond performance aspects, revolutionizing the Konkani stage with visually striking sets, dialogue depth, and mesmerizing light effects.

With technical brilliance in stage setting and lighting, D'Costa aimed to elevate the standards of Konkani tiatrs, infusing them with a touch of cinematic grandeur.

Works like Abdul Narayan D'Souza and Fulam Ani Kantte (Flowers and Thorns) addressed the theme of communal harmony, while Vavraddi (Labourer), in which D'Costa himself took part, provided an authentic depiction of rural life.

D'Costa's popular tiatrs include Vauraddi, Rinn (Debt), Dukh, Kakut, Jivit ek Sopon, Konnank Mhunnon Maim (Whom should I call mother?

), Abdul Narayan D'Souza, Jawan (Soldier), Peleache Vostuchi Axea Korum Naie, Fulam ani Kantte, Upkar Naslolo, Ordhi Bhakri, Govai (Witness), Kaido (Rule), Koidi, Rogtac Tanello (Blood Thirsty), Khoto Poiso (Fake Money), Rekad (Regards), Tufan (Storm), Angounn (Solemn vow), Fottkiro (Liar), No Vacancy, Ghatki Voni (Traitor Sister-in-law), Ixttaghot (Friendship), Vantte (Division), Maria Magdalena, Gorib (Poor), Mortikar (Killer), Vadiu, Amchi Bhas (Our Language), Ugddas (Remembrance), Dhorji (Tailor), Noxib (Luck), Abru (Respect), among others.

B. Chavan, the Chief Minister of Maharashtra at the time, was impressed to realize that he was presenting an award to the actor D'Costa, who had delivered a memorable performance as a disabled character in Angounn.

[3] Writer André Raphael Fernandes writes, while D'Costa's focus primarily lay in acting, his musical contributions showcased his mastery of the Konkani language.

Throughout his career, D'Costa displayed his versatility as an actor, portraying a diverse range of characters, including fathers, landlords, farmers, lunatics, and beggars.

Furthermore, the then Chief Minister of Goa, Daman and Diu, Dayanand Bandodkar, presented D'Costa with a award for his tiatr production titled Vauraddi (Labourer).

Moreover, the Goa Konkani Akademi published two of his tiatrs, Jawan (Soldier) and Fulam Ani Kantte (Flowers and Thorns), in book format, ensuring their preservation for future generations.