Music maestro AR Rahman, known for maintaining a remarkably private life despite his global fame, has finally addressed the widespread public attention surrounding his separation from wife Saira Banu. The couple, married for nearly thirty years, announced their separation in November of last year, bringing an intensely private chapter of Rahman’s life into the public spotlight.
In a rare interview with Nayandeep Rakshit on his YouTube channel, Rahman reflected with grace and humility on the challenges of living in the public eye and dealing with the barrage of commentary that followed the announcement of his breakup. Speaking candidly, the Oscar-winning composer said, “The choice of being in public life is intentional, so everybody gets reviewed. Right from the richest person to even God gets reviewed, so who am I?” Rahman’s statement underlined his awareness of fame's double-edged sword, acknowledging that public scrutiny comes with the territory. Yet, he insisted that criticism—no matter how harsh—should not breed bitterness. “As long as we stay together and are not conceited or toxic... even those who criticise us - they're all family,” he added, sharing his belief in unity over resentment.
In the same interview, Rahman addressed the harsh trolling and personal attacks that emerged online after news of the divorce surfaced. Rather than responding with anger, he chose a path of empathy. “If I say things about someone's family, someone will say things about mine. And we, as Indians, believe this. Nobody should say unnecessary things because everyone has a sister, a wife, a mother,” he said, pointing to the cultural importance of respect and dignity in public discourse. Rahman revealed that his way of coping with such painful moments is deeply spiritual. “Even when someone says something hurtful, I pray, 'Please God, forgive them and guide them',” he explained, offering a glimpse into his personal philosophy of compassion and patience.
The separation marked a significant emotional moment for Rahman, who later took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a heartfelt message with fans and well-wishers. “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,” he wrote. The post resonated widely, as Rahman admitted to the emotional toll and shared his gratitude towards those who respected their privacy. His message ended with a reflective note: “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. #arrsairaabreakup.”
AR Rahman and Saira Banu, who share three children son AR Ameen and daughters Khatija and Raheema Rahman had long been seen as one of the most low-profile couples in the Indian entertainment industry. Their personal life was rarely in the headlines, and both often emphasized values of faith and family in public appearances.
Interestingly, in March, following Rahman’s brief hospitalization for chest pain and subsequent angiography in Chennai, Saira Banu made a public statement that sparked further confusion. She clarified that the two were not legally divorced yet, and requested the media to refrain from labeling her as Rahman’s “ex-wife.” The evolving situation continues to draw public curiosity, though both parties have repeatedly asked for privacy and space. Rahman’s dignified and deeply spiritual response to the public chatter reflects not just his personal resilience but also his belief in handling adversity with prayer and compassion. As public figures increasingly face intense scrutiny of their private lives, AR Rahman’s approach may serve as a reminder that dignity and grace can coexist with fame, even amid heartbreak.
