Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan and his wife of 13 years, Sussanne Roshan, are ending their marriage, the Hindustan Times reported on Friday.

In a statement requesting the media to respect his privacy, the actor, who has two sons with Sussanne – Hrehaan, 7 and Hridhaan, 5, said:

“Sussanne has decided to separate from me and end our 17-year relationship. This is a very trying time for the entire family and I request the media and the people to grant us our privacy at this time.

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.

The confirmation comes after several months of speculation over the couple's split.

Hrithik Roshan married Sussanne, the daughter of Bollywood producer, director and actor Sanjay Khan, in 2000.