Actor Aamir Khan, wife Kiran Rao announce divorce after 15 years of marriage

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, said Amir Khan and Kiran Rao in a joint statement. (File image: Reuters)

Bollywood actor Aamir Khan and his wife, the director and producer Kiran Rao, announced their separation after 15 years of marriage, saying they began a planned separation some time ago, and now feel comfortable to formalise the arrangement.

In a joint statement, the couple said they were living separately yet sharing their lives the way an extended family does. “We will also continue to work as collaborators on films, Paani Foundation, and other projects that we feel passionate about,” the statement read.

“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. 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,” it read.

Khan (56) and Rao (47) first met on the sets of the actor's 2001 blockbuster movie "Lagaan" and got married in December 2005. They welcomed their son Azad Rao Khan in December 2011.

“We remain devoted parents to our son Azad, who we will nurture and raise together,” it stated.

They thanked their families and friends for their support. “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.

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,” it added.

Khan, the star of acclaimed films such as "Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak", "Sarfarosh", "3 Idiots", "Talaash" and "Dangal", was previously married to Reena Dutta. They have two children -- son Junaid Khan and daughter Ira Khan.

In professional life, Khan will be next seen in "Laal Singh Chadha", an official Hindi remake of Tom Hanks' acclaimed movie "Forrest Gump". The film is being produced by Rao, who has also backed several others films, including Dangal and Secret Superstar.