Bollywood’s power couple Aamir Khan and wife Kiran Rao have announced their divorce. The couple released their joint statement announcing their separation after 16 long years of marriage on Saturday, July 3.
The pair have worked together to make some of the most successful films for the Indian Cinema, including their most recent collaboration on the mega-hit movie Dangal (2016).
The pair who tied the knot in 2005 met on the sets of Ashutosh Gowariker’s Lagaan (2001).
- SEE: Damian Hurley’s net worth explored!
Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao’s divorce statement explored
The Bollywood couple started their joint statement by saying, “In these 15 beautiful years together we have shared a lifetime of experiences, joy and laughter, and our relationship has only grown in trust, respect and love.”
Talking about their separation, the couple further said, “Now we would like to begin a new chapter in our lives — no longer as husband and wife, but as co-parents and family for each other.”
The couple shares a 9-year-old son Azad Rao Khan.
Not divulging further into the reason behind their divorce, the pair 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.”
Aamir and Kiran’s marriage turned out to be one of the most creative union’s in Bollywood. The actor and his writer-director wife have worked together on commercially successful films like Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na (2008), Delhi Belly (2011), Dangal (2016) and the documentary film Rubaru Roshni (2019).
Speaking further in their joint statement about their creative collaborations, the couple said, “We will remain devoted parents to our son Azad, who we will nurture and raise together. We will also continue to work as collaborators on Films, Paani Foundation and other projects we feel passionate about.”
Paani Foundation is the couple’s non-profit which they founded together in 2016. It focuses on fighting the drought and water crisis in rural Maharashtra.
- SEE: Selena Gomez’ Swimming Suit Line goes on sale!
A look at the actor’s family and kids
Aamir and Kiran’s love story is one of the Indian film industries most iconic ones. As mentioned earlier pair met on the sets of Lagaan, one of the actor’s most successful films ever.
While Aamir played the lead role of Bhuvan Latha in the film, Kiran was working behind the scenes as an assistant director.
The 56-year-old actor has revealed in many interviews that their romance bloomed after a few years of his separation from his first wife Reena Dutta.
Aamir and Kiran had their first and only child Azad in 2011.
The Bollywood actor was married to his first wife Reena for 16 years between 1986-2002. The ex-couple has two children together, a son named Junaid Khan (28) and daughter, Ira Khan (24).
Speaking about his ex-wife to Hindustan Times in 2012, Aamir had said, “Reena and I were married for 16 years. We grew up together as we both were very young when we got married. Our separation was tough on both of us. It was a special relationship and is still very close to my heart.”
Twitter reacts to Bollywood couple’s separation
Many of the actor’s fans and supporters were heartbroken to learn the news. However, others blasted those who were posting negative comments and rumours about the couple’s separation.
One fan wrote, “I will stand with Aamir Khan always and respect Kiran Rao. You lived like a couple with dignity, parted ways with dignity. I am sure both have helped each other to become better individuals over the years. I wish both of you a great future.”
Posting a pic of the actor a second fan wrote, “I respect your decision and we will always be by your side.I hope you will always be happy.. don’t mind the bad comments, we are with you .#AamirKhan”
Some users even managed to make light of the situation turning it into memes.
In other news, WATCH: Joe Lycett walks off after plastic bottles comment on Steph’s Packed Lunch