'Not officially divorced': Saira clarifies she isn't AR Rahman's 'ex-wife'
What's the story
Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman (58) was recently admitted to a hospital after he was dehydrated upon returning from London.
Now, his estranged wife Saira Banu has released a voice note through her spokesperson, wishing him a speedy recovery and clarifying their marital status.
In the message, she said, "I want to tell all of you that we are not officially divorced, we are still husband and wife."
She requested not to be called his "ex-wife."
Separation details
'I didn't want to stress him too much'
Banu further explained the reason behind their separation. "We are still husband and wife. We are separated because I was not feeling well for the last two years and I didn't want to stress him too much," she said.
She added, "It's just that we are separated but my prayers are always with him."
"I want to say one thing to everyone, especially his family, that please don't stress him too much, and take care of him."
Health update
Rahman was hospitalized after experiencing chest pain
To note, Rahman was admitted to a private hospital in Chennai on Sunday morning.
Doctors later said he was feeling unwell due to dehydration, which was worsened by fasting during Ramadan.
The composer underwent angiography but has since been discharged and is recovering.
His son Ameen shared on Instagram, "My father felt a bit weak due to dehydration hence we went ahead and did some routine tests, but I'm happy to share that he is doing well now."
Separation
Rahman and Banu's separation details
For the unversed, Rahman and Banu announced their separation in November 2024 after 29 years of marriage.
The couple, who got married in 1995, share three kids: Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen.
In his separation post, Rahman wrote, "We had hoped to reach the grand 30, but all things, it seems, carry an unseen end. Even the throne of God might tremble at the weight of broken hearts."