Mumbai : Oscar and Grammy-winning composer A. R. Rahman and his wife, Saira Banu, have announced their decision to part ways after 29 years of marriage. The couple, who tied the knot in 1995 in an arranged marriage, has reportedly been struggling with emotional strain, leading to what has now become an irreparable gap between them.
Saira Banu’s lawyer, Vandana Shah, issued an official statement on behalf of the family, explaining the reasons behind the separation. The statement reads:
“After many years of marriage, Mrs. Saira Banu has made the difficult decision to separate from her husband, Mr. A. R. Rahman. This decision comes after significant emotional strain in their relationship. Despite their deep love for each other, the couple has found that the tensions and difficulties have created an insurmountable gap between them, one that neither party feels able to bridge at this time.”
The statement also highlighted the immense emotional pain that led to Saira’s decision, with her lawyer stressing that this was a choice made out of “pain and agony.” It concluded by requesting privacy for Saira as she navigates this difficult personal chapter.
Rahman and Saira, who are parents to three children—daughters Khatija and Raheema, and son Ameen—have always maintained a relatively private life despite Rahman’s global fame. Their decision to separate has come as a shock to many of their fans and well-wishers.
In response to the news, Rahman’s son, AR Ameen, who has followed in his father’s musical footsteps as a singer, took to Instagram to request privacy for his family. In an emotional message posted to his Stories, Ameen wrote:
“We kindly request everyone to respect our privacy during this time. Thank you for your understanding.”
The separation marks the end of a long and storied relationship, leaving fans and the public reflecting on the complexity of relationships, even for those in the public eye. Rahman and Saira’s journey together has been marked by both personal and professional highs, and their decision to part ways underscores the emotional challenges that can accompany even the most enduring unions.
As the couple navigates this difficult transition, their fans, friends, and family are offering support and respect for their privacy during this challenging period.