Farhan Akhtar and his wife Adhuna have decided to go their separate ways after being married for 15 years.

Putting all speculation to rest, the couple has released an official statement regarding their split.

'This is to announce that we, Adhuna and Farhan, have mutually and amicably decided to separate.'

'Our children remain our priority and it is immensely important to us, as responsible parents, that they be protected from unwarranted speculation and public glare.'

'We sincerely request that we are given the privacy that is required at this time to move forward in a dignified manner,' reads the statement.

Akhtar, 42, got married to Adhuna, 48, in 2000 after being in a relationship for three years.

They have two children, Shakya and Akira.

Photograph: Pradeep Bandekar