Trinidad cultural icon Hansley 'Hans' Hanoomansingh dies at 83

The Ministry of Culture and Community Development in Trinidad and Tobago has joined the national community in mourning the passing of Hansley “Hans” Hanoomansingh — a beloved cultural icon, veteran broadcaster, and former Member of Parliament — who died on Saturday at the age of 83.

News of his death was confirmed earlier today by his brother, Gideon Hanoomansingh, via social media.

In a statement, the Ministry described Hanoomansingh as a man whose life was defined by “unwavering commitment to public service, culture and national development.” Born and raised in Las Lomas and Cunupia, his love for communication began at Presentation College, where he honed his skills in debate and public speaking.

In 1966, at just 24, Hanoomansingh made history as the youngest MP elected to Trinidad and Tobago’s House of Representatives, representing Caroni East for the Democratic Labour Party. After one term, he returned to his true passion: broadcasting and cultural advocacy.

Hanoomansingh became a household name through his long-running radio programme From the Silver Screen, and was known for his warm, distinctive voice that resonated across the nation during the golden age of radio. He later founded Heritage Radio to promote cultural expression and was a tireless advocate for cultural inclusion throughout his life.

He also led the National Council of Indian Culture (NCIC), where he pioneered the creation of Divali Nagar — now one of the country’s most prominent cultural institutions and the only one of its kind in the region.

Over the years, Hanoomansingh was widely recognized for his contributions. He received the Hummingbird Gold Medal in 1990, an Honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of the West Indies in 2010, and was appointed to the Special Advisory Commission on Heritage Tourism in 2011. He was also featured among the notable personalities on the Parliament Channel.

Michelle Benjamin, Minister of Culture and Community Development, described him as “a man of tremendous depth” whose work “brought Indian culture to the forefront of national life.”

“We have lost a pioneer, a patriot and a powerful voice for cultural understanding,” she said. “His legacy as a broadcaster and cultural leader has shaped how we celebrate who we are as a people.”

The Ministry saluted Hanoomansingh’s lasting impact, stating: “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.”