AR Rahman and Saira Banu, Jayam Ravi and Aarti Ravi, Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Naga Chaitanya: Most shocking recent celebrity divorces in the South

AR Rahman and his wife, Saira Banu, announced their mutual decision to part ways after 29 years of marriage yesterday (November 19). The news has taken the internet by storm, leaving fans in shock. However, this is not the first celebrity divorce to make headlines this year. Actor Jayam Ravi and his wife, Aarti Ravi, also recently separated, while the divorce of Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Naga Chaitanya remains a topic of discussion among fans. Here's a look at five major celebrity divorces from the South Indian film industry in recent times.

Pic: Instagram

Legendary music composer AR Rahman and his wife, Saira Banu, announced their separation after nearly three decades of marriage. Saira confirmed the decision through a statement issued by her lawyer, Vandana Shah. A few hours later, AR Rahman also addressed the news on social media, describing the decision as "heart-wrenching" after almost 29 years of marriage. The couple, who tied the knot on March 12, 1995, are parents to three children: Khatija, Raheema, and AR Ameen.

Pic: Instagram

On September 9, Tamil actor Jayam Ravi revealed his divorce from wife Aarti Ravi after 15 years of marriage. Following the announcement, Aarti shared an emotional note on Instagram, stating she was unaware of the decision and that she and their two sons were shocked. The separation sparked rumors of Jayam Ravi being in a secret relationship with singer and spiritual healer Kenishaa Francis, which both Jayam and Kenishaa later denied. Jayam cited mental and emotional distress in his marriage as the reason behind the decision. The couple has two sons, Aarav and Ayaan.

Pic: Instagram

Singer and composer GV Prakash Kumar and his wife, singer Saindhavi, announced their divorce on May 13, 2024, after 11 years of marriage. The couple addressed speculation surrounding their separation, releasing a joint statement that clarified, "Our divorce is not due to any external factors. Randomly assassinating someone’s character baselessly is unacceptable. This decision was mutually made for our betterment." The two, who have been friends for 24 years since their school days, expressed their intention to remain friends moving forward. They have a daughter named Anvi.

Pic : Instagram

Actor Dhanush and filmmaker Aishwarya Rajinikanth announced their separation in 2022 after 18 years of marriage. The couple, who tied the knot in 2004, filed for divorce earlier this year, with proceedings currently underway at the Chennai Family Court. Their relationship began after the first-day screening of Dhanush's film 'Kadhal Kondaen,' where Aishwarya, impressed by his performance, sent him a bouquet with a note saying, "Good work, keep in touch." The couple has two sons, Yatra and Linga. Notably, Aishwarya is two years older than Dhanush.

Pic : Twitter

Tollywood stars Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Naga Chaitanya announced their separation in 2021 after nearly four years of marriage. The couple first met on the set of 'Ye Maaya Chesave' in 2010 and tied the knot in 2017. Their divorce deeply impacted Samantha, who later took a break from the industry and was diagnosed with the autoimmune condition, Myositis, the following year. Meanwhile, Naga Chaitanya is reportedly preparing to tie the knot with actress Sobhita Dhulipala.

Pic: Instagram

I never knew how strong I was,until I became single mother and being strong was the only choice I had . Me and my Girl

Putting an end to rumors, the Malayalam actress Bhama confirmed this year that she is single. She shared and Instagram note that read, "