AR Rahman and Saira Banu’s announcement of their divorce after 29 years of marriage has prompted both public speculation and professional commentary. While Rahman expressed his heartbreak through a poignant post, Saira Banu’s lawyer, Vandana Shah, has provided insight into the dynamics that often lead to celebrity breakups.
In a podcast interview on The Chill Hour, Shah explained that many Bollywood divorces stem from unique pressures inherent to the world of fame and fortune. She identified boredom as a recurring issue, noting that individuals accustomed to high-stakes lifestyles often struggle to find fulfilment in long-term relationships. “They move on from one marriage to another because of boredom, and that is very peculiar to Bollywood and super-rich families,” Shah remarked.
Another factor she highlighted was the heightened expectations surrounding intimacy. Shah stated that the demands placed on sexual relationships in the celebrity sphere often exceed those in more typical marriages, creating strains that are difficult to resolve. She also touched on the role of external interference, such as in-laws or siblings influencing decisions, which can lead to further complications.
Interestingly, Shah dismissed infidelity as a dominant cause of marital breakdowns in Bollywood, explaining that occasional indiscretions, such as one-night stands, rarely carry the same weight in these relationships.
Addressing Rahman and Banu’s divorce specifically, Shah praised the dignified manner in which the couple had chosen to part ways, stating, “Both Rahman and Saira will continue to support each other and wish each other well.”
Meanwhile, Rahman’s use of the hashtag #ARSairaBreakup in his divorce announcement sparked mixed reactions on social media. Some fans criticised the unusual choice, with one user on X writing, “Who starts a hashtag for a breakup?” Another commented, “Irony died a thousand deaths. Dude wants privacy but starts a hashtag trend for his divorce.” Others speculated that the move was unintentional and defended Rahman, suggesting that his lack of social media savvy might explain the misstep.
