Music legend AR Rahman, wife announce separation after 28 years of marriage

Legendary music composer AR Rahman and his wife, Saira, have announced their separation, ending nearly three decades of marriage, according to reports on socia media.

Saira's lawyer, Vandana Shah, released an official statement citing emotional strain and unbridgeable differences between the couple as factors in their decision.

“After many years of marriage, Mrs Saira has made the difficult decision to separate from her husband Mr AR Rahman,” read the statement.

“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,” it added.

The statement emphasised that Saira, who requested privacy, took this step after a period of “pain and agony.” Neither Rahman nor Saira has commented further on the separation at this time.

Rahman and Saira, who wed in 1995 in an arranged marriage facilitated by Rahman's mother, have three children together: Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen.

The musician, known for scoring films such as Slumdog Millionaire and Bombay, previously shared that his mother’s search for a “simple” bride who could inspire him aligned with his dedication to music, adding, “I didn’t have time to search for a bride. I was busy with films … I was 29 and told my mother, ‘Find me a bride.’”

The announcement comes as Rahman remains active in his music career, with his latest work in Dhanush’s film Raayan and upcoming projects in multiple languages, including Chhaava and Gandhi Talks.