In a heartfelt announcement, A.R. Rahman and his wife, Saira, have revealed their decision to separate after nearly 30 years of marriage. A statement issued through their lawyer highlighted the emotional strain in their relationship as the reason for the split, with both parties acknowledging the deep pain involved in the decision. Despite their love for each other, they expressed that the difficulties in their relationship had become too overwhelming to overcome.

Rahman, who won an Oscar for his music in Slumdog Millionaire, shared his sorrow over not reaching the milestone of "the grand thirty" in their marriage, reflecting on the emotional toll of broken relationships. The couple, married in 1995, are parents to three children—Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen. Their son, Ameen, also shared a message asking the public to respect their privacy.

This news comes after years of emotional strain between the two, with Rahman previously sharing insights into their arranged marriage in an interview from 2012. Rahman revealed he was too focused on his music career to search for a bride and asked his mother to find a suitable partner for him, leading to his marriage to Saira. Despite this difficult moment, Rahman expressed hope that there is meaning in the "shattering" of their relationship, while seeking privacy as they navigate this challenging chapter in their lives.