Saira Banu’s lawyer rubbishes rumours linking Mohini Dey to AR Rahman's divorce

Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman and his wife, Saira Banu, recently announced their decision to separate after nearly 30 years of marriage. The announcement came as a shock to fans, sparking several speculations about possible reasons for their split. Some even linked it to the divorce of Rahman’s bassist, Mohini Dey, who revealed her separation from composer Mark Hartsuch on the same day, stating that the decision was mutual as both wanted different things in life.

Speaking to the Republic World, Saira Banu’s lawyer, Vandana Shah, dismissed any connection between the two divorces. “There is no connection at all. Saira and Mr Rahman made this decision on their own,” Shah clarified. She emphasized that the separation was a mutual and thoughtful decision, taken after much consideration.

Rahman, in his statement, described the decision as a “fragile” matter and urged for privacy during this period. Saira’s lawyer highlighted the amicable nature of the divorce, saying, “It would be an amicable divorce. Both of them are extremely genuine, and this decision was not taken lightly.” She refrained from discussing specific reasons for the separation, citing confidentiality, but praised the couple’s maturity in handling the situation with grace.

According to Shah, no discussions about financial settlements or compensation have taken place yet. She added that every long marriage goes through ups and downs, and if it has come to an end, it has done so in a dignified manner. Saira and Rahman, who married in 1995, have three children – daughters Khatija and Raheema, and son Ameen.