Mumbai, Dec 14:

Popular Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan on Friday made his separation from his wife Sussanne public.Hrithik and Sussane

"Sussanne has decided to separate from me and end our 17-year relationship. This is a very trying time for the entire family," Hrithik said in a statement released on Friday evening.

He requested the media to respect his privacy in this matter.

Hrithik had a brain surgery earlier this year and is currently undergoing more check-ups in the US.

He is expected to return to India on December 18.

The news comes just days ahead of their 13th marriage anniversary.

Roshan married Sussanne, the daughter of Bollywood actor Sanjay Khan, on December 20, 2000.

They have two young sons.