‘Tensions Created Insurmountable Gap’: A R Rahman, Wife Saira Banu Separate After 29 Years

Bhubaneswar: A R Rahman’s wife Saira Banu on Tuesday announced separation from her Oscar-winning music composer husband.

They have been married for 29 years and are parents to three children – Khatija, Raheema and Ameen.

Her lawyer Vandana Shah released an official statement to the press, regarding the couple’s decision to part ways.

“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 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. Mrs Saira emphasised that she has taken this decision out of pain and agony. Mrs Saira requests privacy and understanding from the public during this challenging time, as she navigates this difficult chapter in her life,” it read.

Their son Ameen also posted an Instagram story, requesting followers and fans to ‘respect the family’s privacy’.

Rahman and Saira had got married in 1995 in an arranged set up. In ‘Rendezvous with Simi Garewal’, the music maestro revealed that he went for an arranged marriage as he didn’t have the time to search for a bride himself.  “To be honest, I didn’t have time to search for a bride. I was busy with films, including ‘Rangeela’ in Bombay. But I knew it was the right time to get married. I was 29 and told my mother, ‘Find me a bride.’”