‘We Are Not Divorced’: Saira Banu Clarifies Separation From AR Rahman

Saira Banu, wife of composer AR Rahman, has issued a statement addressing their relationship status. She confirmed that while they are separated, they have not legally divorced. She also requested that the media refrain from referring to her as Rahman’s "ex-wife." For those unaware, AR Rahman was admitted to a corporate hospital in Chennai due to dehydration but has since returned home and is in good health, his family confirmed on Sunday, March 16. Meanwhile, Banu expressed her concern for Rahman’s well-being, sent him her best wishes, and urged his family to avoid adding to his stress.

‘We Are Not Divorced’: Saira Banu Clarifies Separation from AR Rahman

She also revealed that their decision to live apart stemmed from her ongoing health struggles. In her statement, she said, "Asalam Alaikum, this is Saira Rahman here. I wish him a speedy recovery. I just got the news that he got chest pain, and an angio was performed on him. With the blessings of the Almighty, he is doing fine now, and there’s nothing to be worried about."

She further emphasised that they remain legally married, stating, "I also wanted to tell everyone that we are not officially divorced; we are still husband and wife. It’s just that we are separated because of my health issues. For the last two years, I haven't been doing well, and I didn’t want to stress him out. But please, I would request the media to not call me ‘ex-wife’, as we are only separated, but all my good wishes are still with him. I also want to tell everyone, especially his family, to not give him any kind of stress and to take care of him. Thank you."

In November 2024, AR Rahman and Saira Banu revealed their decision to separate after 29 years of marriage, citing "significant emotional strain in their relationship." Describing their decision as a "fragile chapter," the statement noted, "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."

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Rahman expressed the emotional impact of the separation in a tweet, saying, "We had hoped to reach the grand thirty, but all things, it seems, carry an unseen end." He added, "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."

“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…

— A.R.Rahman (@arrahman) November 19, 2024

The couple's three children have shown their support for their parents during this difficult time. Raheema shared her father's post on Instagram, asking for prayers and reminding followers to respect their privacy. "It's their personal issue," she reposted in a Tamil message.

Ameen, 21, also took to social media, writing, "We kindly request everyone to respect our privacy during this time. Thank you for your understanding." Meanwhile, Khatija emphasised the need for privacy, stating, "I would greatly appreciate it if this matter could be treated with the utmost privacy and respect." Thank you for your consideration."