In a surprising development, celebrated composer AR Rahman and his wife, Saira Banu, announced their separation on Tuesday evening, ending their 29-year-long marriage. The announcement was made through separate statements shared by Saira’s lawyer and Rahman himself. The news has sparked a wave of reactions, ranging from support to confusion, particularly over Rahman’s use of a hashtag in his social media post.
Rahman’s Emotional Statement
Taking to X (formerly Twitter) shortly after midnight, Rahman penned a an emotional note:
“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.”
The Oscar-winning composer ended the tweet with a bouquet emoji, followed by the hashtag #arrsairaabreakup. While the statement drew sympathy and support, the hashtag puzzled many fans, leading to a flurry of reactions online.
Mixed Reactions from Fans
Criticism over the hashtag was swift. One fan questioned, “Who starts a hashtag for a breakup?” Another wrote, “Irony died a thousand deaths. Dude wants privacy but starts a hashtag trend for his divorce.” Some urged Rahman to reconsider his social media strategy, suggesting he fire his admin.
Others, however, defended the composer, noting his limited engagement with social media trends. “He’s not a Gen Z celeb. Cut him some slack,” read one comment.
Official Statement from the Couple
Earlier on Tuesday, a statement issued by Saira’s lawyer, Vandana Shah, confirmed the separation:
“After many years of marriage, Mrs. Saira and her husband Mr. AR Rahman have made the difficult decision to separate from each other. Despite their deep love, the couple has found that tensions and difficulties have created an insurmountable gap between them.
Rahman and Saira married in 1995 and share three children, including singers Khatija and Ameen. As one of the most private couples in the industry, their separation marks the end of an era for fans who admired their partnership.