Lawyer breaks silence as rumours swirl around AR Rahman, Saira Banu's split

Both Saira and Rahman stated their decision was due to "significant emotional strain" in their relationship

Oscar-winning composer A R Rahman and his wife, Saira, have announced their decision to separate after nearly 29 years of marriage. Now their lawyer, Vandana Shah, confirmed the separation, stressing that it was a mutual decision and urging respect for the family’s privacy during this challenging time.

“The divorce hasn’t happened yet. I am representing both of them. I can’t reveal the reason, but it is a marriage of 29 years. In every marriage, ups and downs are common. It is a painful decision, but it is a joint decision. The family’s privacy must be respected at this point of time,” Shah told ANI.

The couple initially shared the news through a statement from Saira's lawyer. The statement explained that their decision to part ways was due to “significant emotional strain” in their relationship.

“On behalf and instruction of Mrs. Saira and her husband renowned musician Allahrakka Rahman (AR Rahman), Vandana Shah and Associates issue the following statement regarding the couple’s decision to part ways,” the statement began.

“After many years of marriage, Mrs  Saira and her husband, Mr. 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. Mrs. Saira and her husband Mr. A.R. Rahman emphasize that they have taken this decision out of pain and agony,” the statement continued.

Rahman himself took to X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday to share his thoughts, revealing that they had hoped to celebrate their "grand thirty" but life had other plans.

“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,” Rahman wrote.

The couple, who married in 1995, share three children—Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen.

On the professional front, Rahman was recently honoured with the 'XTIC Award 2024 for Innovation' by IIT Madras for his virtual reality film Le Musk. The celebrated composer also launched the film's soundtrack worldwide through Believe Music. Over his illustrious career, Rahman has created iconic soundtracks for films like Roja, Bombay, Dil Se, Lagaan, and Rockstar. His work on Slumdog Millionaire earned him two Academy Awards, cementing his place as a global music icon.