Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman and his wife, Saira Banu, announced their decision to part ways on Tuesday after nearly 30 years of marriage.
But the news garnered more flak from fans than perhaps the sympathy the singer might have expected – all thanks to the use of a hashtag in the singer’s social media post.
The news, shared by Rahman on his social media platform X, came as a heartfelt revelation, with the composer reflecting on the bittersweet nature of their separation.
In his post, Rahman expressed that despite their shared hopes of celebrating their “grand 30” years together, life had taken an unexpected turn.
He wrote: “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.”
Acknowledging the emotional difficulty of the moment, Rahman also conveyed a message of seeking meaning and understanding in the midst of the pain. He thanked friends and well-wishers for their support and for respecting their privacy during this challenging time.
He then used #arrsairaabreakup with the post, which triggered a barrage of criticism from netizens in the comments section.
One user wrote: “Who creates a hashtag for this situation? Fire your admin, thalaiva.”
Another sarcastic comment read, “Thanks for using the hashtag #arrsairaabreakupz. This will give you full privacy as per the new X-Privacy law.”
Another comment read, “You don’t need a # to ask people to respect your privacy.”
One user summed the situation up by writing, “Bro, that hashtag is going to be talked about more than your break-up.”
Rahman and Saira married in 1995 and have three children together: Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen. Their long-lasting relationship had been a subject of public admiration, and news of their separation has left many in shock.
On the professional front, Rahman continues to make waves in the entertainment industry.
Recently, he was awarded the “XTIC Award 2024 for Innovation” by IIT Madras, recognising his work on the virtual reality film Le Musk (2022). The composer also launched the film’s soundtrack worldwide through Believe Music.
Over the years, Rahman has created some of the most memorable music in Indian cinema, with iconic soundtracks for films like Roja (1992), Bombay (1995), Dil Se (1998), Lagaan (2001), and Rockstar (2011).
His international fame grew after winning two Academy Awards for his work on Slumdog Millionaire (2008).
Rahman has also collaborated with artists beyond Bollywood, contributing music to Hollywood films such as 127 Hours (2010) and Million Dollar Arm (2014), and working with global legends like Mick Jagger, Andrew Lloyd Webber, and will.i.am.
