Who is Saira Banu? AR Rahman¡¯s ex-wife and Kutch-origin philanthropist who changed the musician¡¯s life

AR Rahman Divorce: In a shocking turn of events, India¡¯s iconic music maestro has announced separation from his wife of 29 years Saira Banu. An official statement revealed that lately there has been significant emotional strain in their relationship and that the tensions and difficulties between them have created an ¡®insurmountable gap¡¯. As the couple requests privacy during this tough time, here¡¯s everything you should know about Banu and her background.

Who is Saira Banu?

Born on December 20, 1973, in Kutch, Gujarat, Saira hails from a culturally rich upper-middle-class family. She grew up in a traditionally rooted family which beautifully shaped her life¡¯s outlook filled with values. Banu is very active in philanthropic activities including her social and charitable outings.

All her life, she has been a very strong supporter of her husband AR Rahman¡¯s social initiatives including those focusing on education, healthcare, and community development. Despite the musician being a highly public figure, the couple maintained a low-key relationship for all these 29 years having married in 1995.

View this post on Instagram

How did AR Rahman react to his separation?

In a very poetic way, Rahman took to his X handle and wrote, ¡°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 your kindness and for respecting our privacy as we walk through this fragile chapter.¡±

In a 2023 interview with O2 India, Rahman had opined that - ¡°marriage changes you. It was exciting and terrifying both, to know that you¡¯re going to live with another person whom you didn¡¯t know before.¡± The musician revealed that his intention of getting married was more spiritual than physical.

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

Rahman and Saira will be co-parenting their three kids - Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen.

For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.