A.R Rahman and his estranged wife Saira Banu
Saira Banu, the estranged wife of renowned music composer A.R. Rahman, has publicly clarified that the couple is separated but not divorced. In a recent statement, she requested that the media refrain from calling her his ex-wife, emphasising that they are still legally married.
Speaking about the separation, Saira revealed that her health issues were the primary reason behind their decision to live apart. She explained, "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. Since the last two years, I haven’t been doing well, and I didn’t want to stress him out."
Saira also expressed her well-wishes for AR Rahman's recovery after the musician recently faced health issues. She urged his family to avoid causing him additional stress. "All my good wishes are still with him. I also want to tell everyone, especially his family, not to give him any kind of stress and to take care of him," she added.
A.R.Rahman and Saira Banu married in 1995, and the couple announced their separation in November 2024. Vandana Shah, Saira’s lawyer, had issued an official statement confirming the decision.
The Oscar-winning music maestro was hospitalised at a private hospital in Chennai, after experiencing discomfort and chest pain. According to reports from the hospital, he was treated for dehydration and later discharged after a routine check-up.