AR Rahman and Saira Banu Part Ways After 29 Years of Marriage

Indian music maestro AR Rahman and his wife, Saira Banu, have announced their separation after nearly three decades of marriage. The couple, who tied the knot on March 12, 1995, share three children—Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen.

The news was confirmed through a statement released by Vandana Shah and Associates, detailing the reasons behind the couple’s decision.

Official Statement on the Separation

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.”

Saira Banu emphasized that the decision was made out of pain and anguish and requested privacy during this challenging period.

A Love Story That Spanned 29 Years

Saira Banu, who hails from a Gujarati family, married AR Rahman in 1995. Their union was marked by mutual respect and admiration. Saira, who is also the sister-in-law of actor Rashin Rahman, often accompanied Rahman to public events and award ceremonies.

The couple was last seen together at the grand wedding of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant in July 2024. AR Rahman even shared a post from the event on his Instagram, marking one of their last public appearances as a couple.

AR Rahman’s Career Continues to Flourish

While the separation marks a personal turning point for Rahman, the music maestro remains busy with several projects. Recently, he composed music for Dhanush’s directorial debut Raayan. Upcoming projects in his pipeline include Chhaava, Thug Life, and Gandhi Talks, showcasing his versatility across multiple languages.

A Request for Privacy

As the couple navigates this new chapter in their lives, Saira Banu has urged the public to respect their privacy and allow them the space to heal. The announcement marks the end of a partnership that was both personal and professional, as Rahman and Saira often supported each other through their journeys.

This development has come as a shock to fans of AR Rahman, whose music continues to resonate with millions across the globe. While the couple embarks on separate paths, their contributions to each other’s lives remain a testament to the strength of their bond over nearly three decades.