Academy-winning composer AR Rahman and wife call it quits after 28 years

After almost three decades of marriage, Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman and his wife, Saira, jointly announced on Nov 20 through their lawyer that they have "made the difficult decision to separate" from one another.

"After many years of marriage, Mrs. Saira and her husband, Mr. A R Rahman, have made the difficult decision to separate from each other," reads a statement from Vandana Shah and Associates, their lawyer.

According to the attorney, the 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. It highlighted that the "decision comes out of pain and agony,” the statement said.

"Mrs. Saira and her husband Mr. A R Rahman request privacy and understanding from the public during this challenging time, as they navigate this difficult chapter in their life," the statement further added.

The composer expressed grief that the couple was unable to reach the "grand thirty" but expressed hope that "this shattering" would have some meaning.

"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,” Rahman posted on X.

“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," he added.

The couple got married in 1995 and have three children: Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen.

In his Instagram Stories, their son Ameen said, "We kindly request everyone to respect our privacy during this time. Thank you for your understanding."

AR Rahman, also known as "the Mozart of Madras," won an Oscar for his work on the movie Slumdog Millionaire.

In a 2012 interview, A.R. Rahman shared his decision for an arranged marriage, saying he was too busy with films like ‘Rangeela’ and ‘Bombay’ to search for a bride. He wanted a simple, humble wife, and his mother found Saira.