For over four decades, Khalid “Monan” Ghany has transformed a simple teenage hustle into a profound vocation, dedicating his life to cleaning and decorating gravesites at Paradise Cemetery in San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago. What began as a modest effort to earn a little money has evolved into a deeply respected service, bringing comfort and pride to families during the sacred observances of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. These annual traditions, observed on November 1 and 2, respectively, hold immense significance for the Roman Catholic community, as families gather to honor their departed loved ones by cleaning graves, painting tombstones, and adorning them with flowers and candles. Monan’s role in this cultural ritual has made him an indispensable figure in the community. ‘We come to paint and clean the graves. This here what we do is a hustle – we come to look for a little money,’ Monan shared with a humble grin. Yet, his work has long surpassed a mere hustle. Over the years, he has cultivated a loyal clientele, including prominent families like the Kalicharans, Jaqui Koon How, the Samlalsinghs, and the Boodosinghs, who trust him year after year to care for their loved ones’ resting places. Monan’s dedication extends beyond his clients; he also takes pride in maintaining the graves of Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural icons, such as calypsonians Roaring Lion, Black Stalin, and Ras Shorty I. ‘These men are icons for Trinidad and Tobago. Oh gosh alyuh, clean up the grave nah man,’ he urged. For Monan, this tradition is not just about upkeep but about preserving memory, respect, and continuity. He fondly recalls the vibrant celebrations of the past, when families filled the cemetery with life and light. ‘Long time, the same thing yuh seeing now but much more people. Families would come during the day, lime and pay respect. In the night, they’d come back, light candles, talk, and laugh. The whole cemetery used to shine bright with candles,’ he reminisced. Today, the scene is quieter, but Monan’s devotion remains unwavering. As dusk falls on another All Saints and All Souls season, Monan stands at the heart of Paradise Cemetery, brush in hand, embodying a legacy of faith, love, and remembrance.
A hustle that became a calling: Khalid ‘Monan’ Ghany and the art of honouring the departed
