AR Rahman-Saira Banu divorce: Lawyer hints at possible reconciliation
What's the story
The recent announcement of the separation of renowned musician AR Rahman and his wife Saira Banu has raised several questions regarding their future proceedings.
Their lawyer Vandana Shah recently spoke about possible outcomes in an interview with Vicky Lalwani on his YouTube channel.
She spoke about issues like child custody and alimony, while also hinting at a possible reconciliation between the couple.
Custody discussion
'Some of them are adults, they are free to choose...'
When asked about the custody of Rahman and Banu's three children—Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen—Shah said no decision has been made yet.
"That's not decided yet...It is yet to be decided...But some of them are adults, they are free to choose who they stay with," she said.
The couple got married in 1995 and their separation announcement earlier this month shocked fans worldwide.
Alimony defense
Shah defended Banu against alimony speculation
Shah, however, refrained from commenting on any potential alimony attached to the case. However, defending Banu, she said she is not a money-minded person.
"They have been married for 29 years, and no one has heard about Saira in the public space in a loud manner," Shah added.
This was in response to speculation about financial matters related to their divorce proceedings.
Reconciliation possibility
Shah hinted at possible reconciliation between Rahman and Banu
Despite the ongoing divorce proceedings, Shah didn't rule out a potential reconciliation between Rahman and Banu.
"I have not said that reconciliation is not possible. I am an eternal optimist, and I always talk about love and romance," she said.
She further explained, "The joint statement is quite clear. It talks about pain and separation. It's a long marriage and a lot of thought has gone into coming to this decision, but nowhere have I said that reconciliation isn't possible."
Joint statement
Rahman and Banu's joint statement on separation
Rahman and Banu released a joint statement on November 19 announcing their decision to separate after 29 years of marriage.
"After many years of marriage, Saira and her husband, AR Rahman, have made the difficult decision to separate from each other."
"This decision comes after significant emotional strain in their relationship...the couple has found that the tensions and difficulties have created an insurmountable gap between them," the statement read.