The Krrish actor has released a statement saying: “Sussanne has decided to separate from me and end our 17-year relationship. This is a very trying time for the entire family.” He also urged his fans to grant him “privacy at this time”.

Hrithik Roshan, 39 and Sussanne Khan, Sanjay Khan’s daughter, had been together for four years before marrying and have known each other since childhood. The couple married in 2000 -- the year, Hrithik Roshan made his Bollywood debut as an actor in blockbuster film Kaho Na Pyaar Hai.

On his Facebook page, the actor said: "This is my greatest tribute to love. Sussanne is and always will be the love of my life for the rest of my life. If her smiles are brighter without me my love for her must accomplish that. Unconditional."

“I do not wish this news to disempower my fans and the people about the institution of marriage in any way. I am a firm believer in this institution and respect and honour it at the highest level... And once again I thank my fans for all the concern and prayers for my health, my treatment is going well and I should be able to resume my life in every way very soon. Thank you,” he added in his official statement.

The news about the power couple separating was rife in September when Sussanne made a very brief appearance at Rakesh Roshan’s 64th birthday on September 6.  

But the actor and his family denied any rift and cited Sanjay Khan’s illness for Sussanne’s absence. Hrithik also made an appearance with his sister-in-law Farah Khan for Krrish 3’s jewellery launch, amid speculations of his separation, to put the topic to rest.

Hrithik and Sussanne were hailed as one of the successful power-couple from the film world.

Back in 2010, the couple stuck together despite rumours of a relationship between Hrithik Roshan and his Kites co-star Barbara Mori. But the couple have been living separately for some months now, it is reported.