Renowned music composer A.R. Rahman and his wife, Saira Banu, recently announced their separation after nearly 3 decades of marriage.
The couple released a statement through their lawyer, citing “significant emotional strain” as the reason for their decision.
The news shocked fans and sparked widespread speculation about what might have led to the split. Many turned to a recent interview with Vandana Shah, the lawyer representing the couple, who had earlier shared insights into the common causes of marital breakdowns in Bollywood.
In her conversation on The Chill Hour Podcast, Shah elaborated on the unique challenges faced by Bollywood couples.
She explained, “Their lives are very different. I don’t think infidelity is the primary cause of most marriage breakdowns. One major issue is boredom because they’ve seen it all. Many move from one marriage to another due to boredom, which is quite specific to Bollywood and ultra-rich families.”
Shah also pointed to differing expectations around intimacy. “They live very different sexual lives, with much higher expectations compared to non-celebrity marriages. Adultery and one-night stands often don’t carry the same weight for them. While I’m not part of Bollywood, this is based on the cases I’ve handled,” she said.
External influences also play a significant role in marital issues, according to Shah. “Extended family interference can be a major factor. For instance, in one case in South India, the father-in-law was controlling every aspect of the marriage, leaving the daughter-in-law unhappy,” she shared.
Interestingly, Shah noted that Bollywood couples often opt for amicable separations. “Most choose divorce by mutual consent. It avoids unnecessary public drama and reduces financial strain for both parties. It also sets a positive example for fans, showing that separation can be handled maturely,” she said.
Rahman and Saira’s decision to separate after 29 years underscores the complexities of relationships, even for those who appear to have it all. While fans express sadness over the news, many also hope the couple finds peace and resolution in their personal lives.
https://youtu.be/G1EKi6h6XDg?si=prlTegjc-MxBhgjj
