Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman and his wife Saira Banu have announced their decision to part ways after 29 years of marriage.
The announcement was made through a joint statement issued by Saira’s lawyer, Vandana Shah, marking the end of a union that began in 1995.
"After many years of marriage, Mrs. Saira and her husband Mr. A R. Rahman have made the difficult decision to separate from each other," reads the statement.
The decision said the lawyer, "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 said, underscoring that the "decision comes out of pain and agony".
The couple requested privacy and understanding from the public during this challenging period, asking for space as they navigate this phase of their lives.
The couple, who married in 1995, have three children: Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen. On Instagram Stories, their son Ameen urged the public to respect their privacy, thanking them for their understanding.
AR Rahman, lauded as the "Mozart of Madras" by Time magazine, gained global acclaim for his work on Slumdog Millionaire, which won him an Oscar. Beginning his career at the age of five, he achieved national recognition with his music for the 1992 film Roja.
MSH
