Renowned Indian music composer AR Rahman’s wife, Saira Banu has announced that she and the former are parting ways after nearly three decades of marriage.
The news came in an official statement issued by Saira’s lawyer, Vandana Shah, who confirmed the decision was made after significant emotional strain in their relationship.
According to the statement, Saira made the difficult decision to separate from Rahman, citing an insurmountable gap between the couple despite their deep love for one another.
"After many years of marriage, Mrs Saira has made the difficult decision to separate from her husband, Mr. AR Rahman. This decision comes after significant emotional strain in their relationship. Despite their deep love for each other, the tensions and difficulties have created an insurmountable gap between them, one that neither party feels able to bridge at this time," read the official statement.
Saira expressed that the decision was taken with much pain and agony, emphasizing her need for privacy and understanding as she navigates this challenging chapter of her life.
Rahman and Saira tied the knot in 1995 in an arranged marriage, a union that was facilitated by Rahman’s mother, as the composer had little time to search for a bride due to his demanding career. Rahman, reflecting on their early days, once mentioned that he asked his mother to find him a "simple" woman who would support his musical ambitions and inspire him. The couple has three children: Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen.
