Wed Nov 20 09:08:02 UTC 2024: ## Oscar-Winning Musician A.R. Rahman and Wife Saira Banu to Divorce After 29 Years

**MUMBAI, INDIA** – A.R. Rahman, the Oscar-winning music composer, and his wife Saira Banu, are ending their 29-year marriage, according to a joint statement released by their lawyers. The couple, who have three children, announced their separation after careful consideration. Saira Banu cited unmanageable pain within the relationship as the reason for the split.

Rahman, known for his work on the Academy Award-winning film *Slumdog Millionaire*, is one of India’s highest-paid musicians, with a net worth estimated at over ₹1700 crore (approximately $200-240 million). His income stems from composing music for films (currently charging ₹8-10 crore per film and ₹3 crore per song), live performances (₹1-2 crore per hour), and various other ventures including advertisements and music programs. He owns multiple properties in India, the United States, and Dubai, as well as a collection of luxury vehicles.

The divorce is expected to be one of the most expensive in the Indian entertainment industry. Rahman has received numerous accolades, including the National Film Award, Grammy Award, and the Padma Bhushan.

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