AR Rahman issues defamation notice over 'objectionable posts' after divorce announcement

"Notice to all slanderers from ARR's Legal Team. My client informs the hatemongers and sharers of abusive contents to remove the objectionable content within the next one hour and a maximum time duration of 24 hours," Rahman posted with the notice on X that provides a 24-hour window for the removal of such content.

The notice also states that failure to comply could result in legal consequences.

AR Rahman and his wife Saira Banu had announced separation ending 29 years of their married life.

Saira Banu's lawyer has released an official statement.

"After many years of marriage, Mrs Saira has made the difficult decision to separate from her husband Mr AR Rahman," the statement said.

"This decision comes after significant emotional strain in their relationship. Despite their deep love for each other, the couple has found that the tensions and difficulties have created an insurmountable gap between them, one that neither party feels able to bridge at this time."

"Mrs Saira emphasised that she has taken this decision out of pain and agony. Mrs Saira requests privacy and understanding from the public during this challenging time, as she navigates this difficult chapter in her life."

Soon after the announcement, bassist Mohini Dey, who works extensively with Rahman, also announced separation from her husband Mark Kutsch, sparking rumours.

Several posts online started linking Rahman with Dey and said the affair was the reason for the musicians' divorces.

Rahman's legal team said the actions of these individuals is not only tarnishing his reputation but causing distress to his family.

"This only shows the social media persons who intend to harm the reputation of my client are being content starved for their productions and are inventing highly imaginary and false stories to defame my client merely for their cheap short lived publicity," the notice read.

Rahman, 57, got married to Saira Banu in 1995.

The couple has three children, Khatija, Raheema and Ameen.