AR Rahman and Saira Banu's Lawyer Holds Out Hope for Reconciliation, Says Custody Decisions Still Pending

The recent announcement of AR Rahman and Saira Banu’s divorce after 29 years of marriage has left fans worldwide stunned. Lawyer Vandana Shah has shed light on certain aspects.

The recent announcement of AR Rahman and Saira Banu’s divorce after 29 years of marriage has left fans worldwide stunned.

Source : Instagram/@arrahman

The recent announcement of AR Rahman and Saira Banu’s divorce after 29 years of marriage has left fans worldwide stunned. While the couple has remained private about many details, family lawyer Vandana Shah has shed light on certain aspects, including custody arrangements for their children and the possibility of reconciliation. 

Saira Banu's lawyer on children custody and chances of reconcilation

Speaking with Vicky Lalwani on his YouTube channel, Vandana addressed the pressing question of who would take custody of the couple's three children—Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen. When asked if the children would stay with their mother or father, she clarified, “That’s not decided yet... It is yet to be decided... But some of them are adults, they are free to choose who they stay with.” 

On the topic of alimony, Vandana refrained from revealing specifics but defended Saira against any notions of materialism. She stated that Saira has never been known as "a money-minded person" and pointed out her dignified and low-profile presence throughout the marriage. 

Interestingly, Vandana did not dismiss the possibility of reconciliation between the two, expressing hope despite the separation announcement. She said, “I have not said that reconciliation is not possible. I am an eternal optimist, and I always talk about love and romance. The joint statement is quite clear. It talks about pain and separation. It's a long marriage and a lot of thought has gone into coming to this decision, but nowhere have I said that reconciliation is not possible.” 

Separation announcement

Earlier this month, Rahman and Saira shared the news of their split in a heartfelt joint statement, citing "significant emotional strain" as the reason for their decision. Married since 1995, the couple requested privacy as they navigate this difficult chapter. 

"After many years of marriage, Saira and her husband, A R Rahman, have made the difficult decision to separate from each other. 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," the statement read. 

The couple married in 1995.