Bollywood actor Aamir Khan and filmmaker Kiran Rao announced their separation after 15 years of being together, terming it as “the start of a new journey.”
They issued a joint statement earlier on, Juley 3, Saturday morning.
As per the joint statement, “In these beautiful years together, we have shared a lifetime of experiences, joy and laughter, and our relationship has only grown in trust, respect and love. Now we would like to begin a new chapter in our lives.”
“A big thank you to our families and friends for their constant support and understanding about this evolution in our relationship, and without whom we would not have been so secure in taking this leap,” the statement by Aamir and Kiran adds. “We request our well-wishers for good wishes and blessings and hope that-like us-you will see this divorce not as an end, but as the start of a new journey.”
Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao tied the knot on December 28, 2005, after Aamir Khan ended his married life with Reena Dutta after 16 years. Incidentally, Aamir has put an end to another 16-year- marriage life, but this time with Kiran Rao, who he first met with during the shoot of Lagaan. He played the protagonist’s role; she was an assistant director.
Aamir has two children from his previous marriage with Reena Dutta, Junaid Khan and Ira Khan. And from his second marriage with Kiran has one child named Azad Rao Khan.
The statement also clarifies that Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao are separated as husband and wife, but not as co-parents. “We remain devoted parents to our son Azad, who we will nurture and raise together,” they said. “We began a planned separation some time ago and now feel comfortable to formalise this arrangement, of living separately yet sharing our lives the way an extended family does.”
“We will also continue to work as partners on films, Paani Foundation, and other projects that we feel passionate about,” their statement adds.
