AR Rahman talks about the intense public interest in his separation from Saira; says, 'As long as we...'

In November 2024, people got a shock when AR Rahman, the Mozart from Madras announced that Saira Banu and he are separating after three decades of marriage. They had married in 1995, with his mother finding him the perfect life partner. Fans reacted with dismay to the news and media began to speculate what could have gone so horribly wrong in his personal life. AR Rahman has always been a private person, and this was the first time he faced the storm of social media trolling. From gossip-mongering about extramarital affair to domestic turbulence, people went deep into speculations. He gave his profound views on the same to Nayandeep Rakshit.

The choice of being in public life is intentional, so everybody gets reviewed. Right from the richest person to even God gets reviewed, so who am I? As long as we stay together and are not conceited or toxic… even those who criticise us — they’re all family.

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The musician and singer said that if he talks about someone’s family, even his personal life will be discussed. He said, “And we, as Indians, believe this.” He said people should exercise some restraint while dragging in others’ personal lives as everyone has loved ones at home. AR Rahman said he even seeks forgiveness on behalf of those who seem rash and hurtful towards others.

Nobody should say unnecessary things because everyone has a sister, a wife, a mother. Even when someone says something hurtful, I pray, ‘Please God, forgive them and guide them.

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When he fell sick around a month back due to excessive fatigue, Saira Banu assured fans he was doing well. She also told media not to refer to her as ex-wife as she was not formally divorced from him. She said she was unwell hence she decided to live apart. Saira Banu said she did not wish to stress her husband.