AR Rahman on trolling after split: “Someone said hurtful…I Pray”

Oscar-winning music composer AR Rahman has addressed the public discourse surrounding his recent separation from wife Saira Banu. In a candid interview, Rahman also reflected on being subjected to intense public scrutiny. The couple decided to part ways in November 2024.

In a conversation with Nayandeep Rakshit on his YouTube channel, Rahman shared, “The choice of being in public life is intentional, so everybody gets reviewed. 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 the people who criticise us — they are all family.”

Speaking on the online trolling that followed the separation news, Rahman brought up the idea of karma: “The thing is Karma. If I say things about someone’s family, someone will say things about mine. And we, as Indians, believe in this. Nobody should speak unnecessarily because everyone has a sister, a wife, and a mother. Even when I feel someone has said something hurtful about my family, I often pray, ‘Please God, forgive them and guide them onto the right path.’”

AR Rahman and Saira Banu announced their separation after 29 years of marriage, citing deep emotional strain. The couple, who married in 1995, are parents to Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen. In a joint statement issued through their lawyer, they requested privacy and acknowledged the emotional challenges that led to their decision. Their lawyer added that both parties are working towards an amicable divorce.