A.R. Rahman announces separation from wife after 29 years of marriage

In a heartfelt post on X, legendary composer A.R. Rahman and his wife Saira Banu have officially announced their separation after nearly three decades of marriage.

Saira's lawyer, Vandana Shah, released an official statement confirming the couple’s decision to part ways.

Rahman and Saira's journey started in 1995 in an arranged marriage set up by Rahman’s mother. Despite his global fame and success, Rahman admitted in an interview with Simi Garewal that his demanding music career left him little time for personal matters.

"I was immersed in my work, including projects like Rangeela,"

"I told my mother, 'Find me a simple woman who will support me and inspire my music.'

The couple has three children: daughters Khatija and Raheema, and son Ameen.

Family in the spotlight

Following the announcement, the couple's son Ameen took to Instagram to issue a plea for privacy.

"We kindly request everyone to respect our privacy during this time. Thank you for your understanding," Ameen wrote.