Who is Saira Banu? All you need to know about AR Rahman's ex-wife

A.R. Rahman and his wife Saira Banu have announced their divorce after 29 years of marriage. The composer shared an emotional message about their separation, asking for privacy during this difficult time. They were married in 1995 through an arranged marriage and have three children together.


Saira Banu and AR Rahman met for the first time
In an old interview, A.R. Rahman shared how his mother and sister first met Saira Banu at the shrine of the Sufi saint Moti Baba in Chennai. They approached her since she lived nearby, even though they didn’t know her. Rahman recalled their first meeting on January 6, 1995—his 28th birthday—describing Saira as beautiful and gentle. After that, they mostly communicated by phone. He asked her if she wanted to marry him in English, noting she was quiet back then, but now she is very expressive.

Saira Banu’s family background
Saira Banu was born on December 20, 1973, in Kutch, Gujarat, into a culturally rich upper-middle-class family. Her traditional upbringing has influenced her values. She is actively involved in social and charitable work, supporting her husband A.R. Rahman's efforts in education, health, and community development. Although married to a famous musician, Saira and A.R. Rahman have kept their personal lives private and rarely share details about their family. They often attend large events together, including the Ambani wedding, where they were seen entering hand-in-hand.

Saira Banu's support in AR Rahman’s life
Saira Banu played a crucial role in supporting Rahman during his music tours and was actively involved in his professional life. She contributed to his creative projects, including inspiring his virtual reality film, 'Le Musk', which reflects her interest in perfumes. Beyond being a supportive wife, Saira was also a mother to their three children: Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen.