Hrithik and his wife Sussanne decided to end their marriage relationship

Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan and his wife Sussanne have separated, ending months of speculation that their 13-year-old marriage was in trouble.

Hrithik and Sussanne, who were childhood sweethearts, tied the knot in 2000 after a four-year relationship. The couple has two sons -- Hrehaan, 7 and Hridhaan, 5.

“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,” Hrithik, 39, said in a statement on Friday.

There were reports that the couple’s marriage was going through a rough phase when the 35-year-old interior designer had moved out of the Roshan residence and was staying with her parents Sanjay Khan and Zarine.

The ‘Krrish 3’ star added that he has not lost faith in the institution of marriage and honours it at the highest level.

“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,” Hrithik added.

The actor is currently recovering from a recent brain surgery.

Hrithik and Sussanne have not made any public appearance for a while now and the latter was also missing from the actor’s last release Krrish 3’s premiere.

Rumours of trouble in their paradise first originated when Hrithik was linked to his ‘Kites’ co-star and Mexican actress Barbara Mori in 2010.

His upcoming projects include ‘Bang Bang’ opposite Katrina Kaif and he will again team up with Kareena Kapoor for ‘Shuddhi’.