Who is Saira Banu? Wife of AR Rahman, Separating With Him After 29 Years of Marriage

AR Rahman Divorce:  Oscar-winning music composer AR Rahman is going through troubled times in his personal life. Rahman and his wife Saira Banu announced their decision to part ways on Tuesday evening, shocking the fans and family alike. 

Banu has been a pillar of strength and inspiration for Rahman in 29 years of marriage. The news of their separation has left all bewildered. 

Here is all you need to know about Saira Banu, his life, family, and background. 

Who is Saira Banu?

Born on 20 December 1973 in Kutch, Gujarat, Saira Banu hails from a culturally rich upper-middle-class family with shared roots in tradition and values. A philanthropist, Banu is known for her active participation in social and charitable endeavors and for lending support to her husband in his charitable ventures. The two have been contributing to initiatives focused on education, healthcare, and community development. 

 

 

 

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Rahman has always acknowledged her presence as an inspiration in his work and beyond. The two kept their private lives largely private despite their status as one of the country's musician gems. They have made several public appearances at large gatherings and parties. 

They were last seen at the Ambani wedding, walking hand-in-hand on the red carpet as they posed for the camera.

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Love story of Saira Banu and AR Rahman 

The two boasted of marital bliss of 29 years founded on an arranged marriage fixed by Rahman’s mother. Busy with his work commitments, he has asked his mother to ‘find him a bride’. 

Rahman’s mother chanced upon Banu at the Sufi saint Moti Baba shrine in Chennai, and things fell into place like a puzzle waiting to be solved naturally. Rahman shared the story of their first meeting and subsequent chat on TV. He revealed, “She was beautiful and gentle. We met for the first time on January 6, 1995, which was my 28th birthday. It was a brief meeting, and after that, we mostly communicated over the phone. Saira speaks Kutchi and English, and I asked her in English if she wanted to marry me. Back then, she was very quiet, but now she’s anything but silent.”

Banu has extended her support to Rahman as not just a wife but also a pillar for his creative projects as well. The two have three children together, named Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen.