Trinidad Mourns Death of Cultural and National Icon Hansley “Hans” Hanoomansingh

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad - The Ministry of Culture and Community Development says it has joined the national community in mourning the passing of Hansley “Hans” Hanoomansingh, cultural and national icon, veteran broadcaster, mentor, and former Member of Parliament who died on Saturday .

In a statement, the Ministry said Hanoomansingh’s life was marked by his unwavering commitment to public service, culture and national development. 

Born and raised in the villages of Las Lomas and Cunupia, he nurtured a passion for communication during his formative years at Presentation College, where, his love for debate and public speaking first took root.

In 1966,  Hanoomansingh was elected to the House of Representatives as the |youngest member of parliament at that time.

He served one term before returning to his true calling and passion, broadcasting and cultural development.

Hanoomansingh was also a radio and television announcer, producer and presenter, best known for his program “From the Silver Screen,” which became one of the most popular and widely listened-to radio shows of the 1960s. 

He was also the founder of Heritage Radio, which created a platform to amplify cultural expression. Throughout his life, he remained a powerful advocate for cultural inclusion and understanding. 

Hanoomansingh received several national and institutional honors during his lifetime. In 1990, he was awarded the Hummingbird Gold Medal for his outstanding contributions to culture and broadcasting.

 In 2010, he was conferred with an Honorary Doctor of Laws (LL.D.) by the University of the West Indies. 

In paying tribute to  Hanoomansingh, Michelle Benjamin, Minister of Culture and Community Development said – “Mr. Hanoomansingh was a man of tremendous depth. His legacy as a broadcaster and cultural leader has shaped how we celebrate who we are as a people, as a nation. His work with the NCIC and Divali Nagar brought Indian culture to the forefront of national life in Trinidad and Tobago. We have lost a pioneer, a patriot and a powerful voice for cultural understanding. On behalf of the Ministry, I extend deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.”

The Ministry of Culture and Community Development salutes the remarkable life and contributions of Mr. Hansley “Hans” Hanoomansingh. His work has left an indelible mark on our nation’s cultural and historical landscape, and there is no doubt that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.