New Delhi

AR Rahman and his wife Saira Banu announced their separation after 29 years of marriage on Tuesday evening. The same day, Mohini Dey, a bassist who has been a part of Rahman's troupe for years, also announced the end of her marriage. 

When the two splits were announced, many on social media speculated if there was a link between the two breakups. However, Rahman and Saira's legal representative dismissed any link between them.

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Rahman-Saira's lawyer addresses Mohini Dey link

In a conversation with Republic TV, Rahman's lawyer Vandana Shah said, “There is no connection at all. Saira and Mr Rahman made this decision on their own.” Rahman and Saira Banu announced their separation on Tuesday evening, statting that there was 'significant emotional strain in their relationship'.

Who is Mohini Dey?

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All of 29, Mohini Dey is considered one of the top bassists in the country. She rose to fame with her powerful performance in Gaan Bangla S' Wind of Change and has continued to impress audiences with her incredible skill at the guitar. She has performed with Rahman in over 40 shows worldwide so far; in August 2023, she released her debut album, Free Spirit, which showcased her distinctive musical style.

She also took to Instagram on Tuesday and announced her separation from her musician husband, Mark Hartsuch, in a joint Instagram post. "The big thing we want to wish is love to everyone in the world. We appreciate your support in all of the ways you have given it to us. Please honor our decision by being positive towards us at this time and respecting our privacy. We would appreciate no judgements," part of her statement read. 

While many had linked the two announcements, given their proximity, Rahman and Saira's lawyer has now categorically denied this.

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Vandana Shah also said there is no discussion of financial matters in Rahman and Saira Banu's split. "Not as yet. It has not come to this stage yet. It would be an amicable divorce. Both of them are extremely genuine, and this decision was not taken lightly. It is not what you would call a sham marriage," she said.

AR Rahman and Saira Banu's separation

Rahman and Saira Banu married in 1995 and have three children together. Soon after his wife's statement went public, Rahman wrote on X, “We had hoped to reach the grand thirty, but all things, it seems, carry an unseen end. Even the throne of God might tremble at the weight of broken hearts. Yet, in this shattering, we seek meaning, though the pieces may not find their place again. To our friends, thank you for your kindness and for respecting our privacy as we walk through this fragile chapter.”