Music composer AR Rahman and his wife, Saira Banu, announced their decision to separate after nearly three decades of marriage on Tuesday. The couple explained that despite their enduring love, the growing tensions between them had become too much to overcome.
Khatija Rahman posts on Instagram
Following the announcement, Rahman’s daughters and son also expressed their sadness while requesting respect for their family’s privacy. Khatija Rahman, the eldest daughter and a singer-composer herself, took to Instagram to share a message asking for discretion. “We kindly request everyone to respect our privacy during this time,” she wrote. “I would greatly appreciate it if this matter could be treated with the utmost privacy and respect.” Khatija also shared her father’s post on the platform, reinforcing the call for understanding.
AR Rahman had posted on social media, “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. #arrsairaabreakup"
Also read: AR Rahman Uses Bizarre Hashtag With Separation Post, Turns Fans Into Trolls
Raheema Rahman and AR Ameen react
Raheema Rahman, the couple’s second daughter, in an Instagram story, wrote: “Keep us in your prayers 🤲” and also posted a message from a meme page that emphasised the importance of allowing Rahman and Saira to make their own choices.
Meanwhile, AR Ameen, the couple’s son and a playback singer, urged the public to show the family the respect and privacy they deserve.
AR Rahman and Saira Banu announce separation
The official statement, issued by Vandana Shah and Associates, explained that despite their deep affection for one another, the couple had reached an impasse. “This decision comes after significant emotional strain in their relationship," the statement read. "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 further conveyed the couple’s heartfelt emotions, acknowledging the pain of their separation. "Mrs. Saira and her husband Mr. AR Rahman emphasise that they have taken this decision out of pain and agony," it continued. “They request privacy and understanding from the public as they navigate this difficult chapter in their lives.”