On Tuesday evening, AR Rahman and his wife, Saira Banu, announced their separation after 29 years of marriage, citing "significant emotional strain." On the same day, Mohini Dey, a bassist who has performed with AR Rahman for years, also revealed her separation from her husband, Mark Hartsuch.
The timing of both announcements led to speculation about a possible connection, but AR Rahman and Saira Banu's lawyer, Vandana Shah, dismissed any link.
Lawyer denies connection between AR Rahman, Saira Banu, and Mohini Dey
According to reports, Vandana Shah stated, "There is no connection at all. Saira and Mr. Rahman made this decision independently."
She also mentioned that financial matters had not been discussed and emphasised that the divorce would be amicable.
"Both of them are very genuine, and this was not a decision made lightly. It’s not what you would call a sham marriage," she added.
Mohini Dey’s separation announcement
Mohini Dey, a well-known bassist from Kolkata and part of Gaan Bangla's Wind of Change, announced her split from Mark Hartsuch through a joint Instagram post.
In the statement, she expressed gratitude for the support they had received and requested privacy.
"We want to send love to everyone. Thank you for your support. Please respect our decision and avoid judgments," her post read.
AR Rahman and Saira Banu's separation details
AR Rahman and Saira Banu, who married in 1995, are parents to three children: Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen. In a statement, Rahman mentioned that they had hoped to celebrate 30 years together, but circumstances led to their decision.
He took to Twitter to share a heartfelt message, "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."
Saira Banu’s statement emphasized the emotional challenges they faced, describing an "insurmountable gap" in their relationship despite their deep love for each other. She requested privacy during this difficult time.
Speculation addressed and divorce clarification
The overlap in timing between AR Rahman and Saira Banu’s separation and Mohini Dey’s divorce announcement led to speculation. However, Vandana Shah, representing AR Rahman and Saira, clarified there was no connection between the two events.
She also stated that no financial discussions were underway yet, and both parties were committed to a respectful and amicable separation.
Mohini Dey’s announcement, made via Instagram, echoed the need for privacy and understanding, asking followers to refrain from making assumptions or judgments during this period.
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