AR Rahman says ‘we hoped to reach grand thirty’ as wife announces separation
Oscar award-winning composer AR Rahman and his wife Saira Banu announced their separation after 29 years of marriage.
On November 20, the Raayan composer shared an emotional note thanking everyone for respecting their privacy. He called it a ‘shattering’ decision and had hoped they would reach the grand thirty. AR Rahman also mentioned that their relationship saw an ‘unseen end’.
In the early hours of November 20, AR Rahman broke his silence on their separation after wife Saira’s lawyers issued a public statement.
His post on X read, “We had hoped to reach the grand thirty, but all things, it seems, carry an unseen end. Even the throne of God might tremble at the weight of broken hearts. Yet, in this shattering, we seek meaning, though the pieces may not find their place again. To our friends, thank you for your kindness and for respecting our privacy as we walk through this fragile chapter (sic).”
On November 19, Saira Banu’s lawyer Vandana Shah released an official statement regarding the couple’s decision to part ways.
The statement read, “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.”
AR Rahman and Saira Banu got married in Chennai in 1995. They are parents to three children, Khatija, Raheema and Ameen.