Farhan Akhtar and Adhuna: Our children remain our priority

Farhan and Adhuna Akhtar

After months of speculations, Farhan Akhtar and Adhuna Akhtar have decided to part ways after 16 years of marriage. The actor is said to have moved out of his Bandra house to sister Zoya Akhtar's bungalow, two blocks away. Apparently, he is looking for an apartment now. Though there were many theories behind the split, the Akhtars maintained that it is just "a matter of growing apart" over the years.

Farhan and Adhuna Akhtar

Yesterday, the couple issued an official statement which read, "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."

Known as one of the most stylish couples in Bollywood, Farhan and Adhuna met during the making of his directorial debut 'Dil Chahta Hai' (2001). After a three-year courtship, the couple tied the knot in 2000. It also marked Adhuna's debut in Bollywood as hairstylist. Although she is six years older to Farhan, it never was an issue for the couple who seemed blissfully happy till stories of their rift started doing the rounds.

In the 16 years that they were together, their collaboration went beyond being just husband and wife, and she was creatively involved with him in all his projects. They have two daughters, Shakya, 15, and Akira, 9.