Legendary composer AR Rahman and his wife, Saira Banu, announced their separation on Tuesday after 29 years of marriage. The news came as a surprise to many, especially as it coincided with another announcement—the separation of Mohini Dey, Rahman‘s longtime bassist, from her husband, musician Mark Hartsuch.

Given the timing, speculation arose regarding a possible connection between the two events. However, Rahman and Saira Banu’s lawyer, Vandana Shah, has categorically denied any link between the composer’s split and that of Mohini Dey.

AR Rahman and Saira Banu: A Love Story Ends

AR Rahman and Saira Banu were married in 1995 and have three children together. Their nearly three-decade-long relationship was seen as a harmonious partnership, making the announcement of their separation particularly poignant.

In a heartfelt statement shared on Twitter, Rahman expressed the deep emotional impact of the decision:

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.

The couple attributed separation to the “significant emotional strain in their relationship“ and termed it a joint decision.

Talking about the Mohini Dey Connection

On the same day, Rahman and Saira declared that they were separating, Mohini Dey, a 29 year old performer announced that she was parting with her husband Mark Hartsuch. Mohini performed with Rahman in more than 40 shows around the world and published a joint statement on Instagram along with Hartsuch.

Her statement has been as follows:

“With a heavy heart, we’re announcing Mark and I have separated. First of all, it is an amicable agreement that the two of us have come to in regards to us as our friends and family. We are both excellent friends, but we have realised that we want other things in life, and mutual separation was the only choice we felt that best suited us both.”

Mohini has clarified that although they are splitting personally, they would still be working together on other songs in MaMoGi and the Mohini Dey groups. She further requested privacy during this phase.

The coincidence of the two press releases sent lovers’ tongues wagging with rumors linking Rahman and Mohini. Their lawyer Vandana Shah tried to put the speculation to rest while talking to Republic TV:

“There is no connection at all. Saira and Mr. Rahman made this decision on their own.”

Shah explained that the decision for separation was not taken lightly and that money matters haven’t crept into it as yet. She described the split as amicable and reiterated the couple‘s genuine intentions.

Mohini Dey‘s Journey

Mohini Dey is a renowned Kolkata bass player, mostly for her association with A R Rahman. She is also the first female bassist of Gaan Bangla‘s Wind of Change. This 29-year-old has been doing some great work through her debut self-titled album, scheduled to release in August 2023.

Her separation from her husband, Mark Hartsuch was reportedly a mutual and amicable split. According to her statement, Mohini thanked everyone for the support she and Mark have received, and reiterated that she remains committed to staying positive and respectful toward one another.

Respecting Privacy Amid Rumors

The simultaneous declarations by Rahman and Mohini led to much speculation in cyberspace about a possible connection between the two separations. However, Vandana Shah has put paid to the rumors.

She also pointed out that the decision of Rahman and Saira was based on personal issues which they faced in the marriage. Shah said:

Both of them are very sincere, and it is not a decision taken lightly. It is not something you would call a marriage of convenience.

A Fragile Chapter for All

Both Rahman and Mohini have requested respect and privacy while they deal with these new developments in their personal lives. Where the poetic words of Rahman reflect the anguish of a great loss personally, the appeal of Mohini revolves around the possibility of a professional relationship going on despite a personal split.

As two incredibly talented artists, their decisions to prioritize mutual respect and understanding over animosity set an example of grace during challenging times. For the fans and well-wishers of both, it is a lesson in tackling such situations with sensitivity and without speculation.

This is the ending chapter of memorable years in their lives, but it is also a new beginning. Rahman continues to pursue his art, which may bring waves of creativity to the world, while Mohini stays true to her craft, always meaning well to her fans.