Kishoreganj man, who dug thousands of graves without pay, dies

A quiet corner of the country mourns the passing of a man, Manu Mia, whose life was marked not by worldly wealth but by an unwavering devotion to service.

Md Manu Mia of Algapara village in Joysiddhi Union, Itna upazila, Kishoreganj, revered across the district as 'Shesh Thikanar Karigor' or 'The Artisan of the Final Resting Place', breathed his last at 10:30 am on Saturday at his home, leaving behind a legacy of selfless love and rare humility.

Joyasiddhi Union Parishad's Panel Chairman Md Bahauddin Thakur confirmed the news of his death, describing the moment as one that plunged the entire community into mourning.

For nearly five decades, Manu Mia quietly performed one of the most solemn acts of human kindness, digging graves for the dead, often for strangers, never asking for money. Over 3,000 final resting places were prepared by his own hands, a service rendered without payment or complaint.

In villages near and far, he became a familiar figure, riding his beloved horse to the homes of the bereaved. He had once sold his shop to buy that horse, understanding that his calling required more than just intention, it needed movement and swift presence.

"He was not just a grave digger; he was a symbol of humanity," said local resident Advocate Sheikh Mohammad Rokon Reza.

Reza recalled visiting Manu Mia in hospital recently after he had fallen seriously ill. "At the time, some people offered to gift him a new horse to replace the one he had lost. But he refused. He told me, 'I do this only to please Allah. I never want to take anything from people.'"

It was during his time in hospital that tragedy struck. Unidentified miscreants killed his cherished companion, the horse that had been by his side for years. The loss left him heartbroken and deeply shaken.

Panel Chairman Bahauddin Thakur said, "Since the death of his horse, Manu Mia grew noticeably weaker. Though he returned home after treatment, he never regained his strength. With his passing, we've lost a compassionate soul. A man like him is irreplaceable."

The sense of loss among local residents is profound. To many, Manu Mia was not merely a man who prepared graves; he was a beacon of mercy and quiet dignity. His life was marked by prayer, simplicity, and tireless service. His death is felt not just in his village but across Kishoreganj and beyond.

"He lived for others. And now, even in death, he will be remembered by thousands whose loved ones found a final resting place through his hands," said one resident.

Officer-in-Charge of Itna Police Station Zafar Iqbal said Manu Mia's mamaz-e-janaza would be held at 5:30 pm in his native village.

As mourners gather to pay their final respects, Manu Mia will be laid to rest in the very kind of grave he so often dug for others, a quiet, humble ending for a man whose deeds will echo long after the soil settles.