AR Rahman's wife Saira Banu announces divorce

Music Maestro AR Rahman and his wife Saira Banu are separating after nearly three decades of marriage, their lawyer Vandana Shah confirmed on Tuesday."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". Oscar winning composer AR Rahman married Saira in 1995 and are parents to three children: Khatija, Raheema and Ameen.

“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…

— A.R.Rahman (@arrahman) November 19, 2024

"Mrs. Saira and her husband A R. Rahman request privacy and understanding from the public during this challenging time, as they navigate this difficult chapter in their life," the statement further added.AR Rahman, who won the Oscar for his work on Slumdog Millionaire, was once dubbed "the Mozart of Madras" by Time magazine. The musician, who started playing music at the age of five, got his first break with the 1992 movie Roja. It was a hit, and Rahman's soundtrack led to him winning the national award for best music composer.