We've made our own choices: Sussanne on split with Hrithik

 Mumbai, Dec 14 (IANS) Sussanne, Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan's wife of 13 years, Saturday said their separation is based on their "individual choices". But, they will continue to care for each other and for their two sons.

"We are two individuals who respect and care for each other and have made our own individual choices," Sussanne said in a statement Saturday.

The duo was dating for four years before they tied the knot Dec 20, 2000 post the success of Hrithik's debut film "Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai". They have two sons - Hrehaan and Hridhaan.

"We are parents to two wonderful kids and our responsibility remains to protect and take care of them. Nothing can change that," said Sussanne, who is the daughter of veteran actor Sanjay Khan.

Like Hrithik, Sussanne said she would "appreciate if we are given our privacy in such a time".

"Thank you for your warmth and concern for both of us and the family," she said.

The news of their split has come just a few days before their 13th marriage anniversary, and in the midst of a medical treatment that Hrithik is undergoing at an undisclosed location abroad.

The "Krrish" star has been suffering bouts of headache. In July this year, he had undergone a brain surgery for removal of a clot at the Hinduja Hospital.

Bollywood hearthrob Hrithik Roshan, who has announced his wife Sussanne's decision to split from him after 13 years of marriage, says she will forever remain the "love of my life".

"This is my greatest tribute to love. Sussanne is and always will be the love of my life for the rest of my life," Hrithik posted on his Facebook page early Saturday morning.

"If her smiles are brighter without me, my love for her must accomplish that. Unconditional," added the 39-year-old.

Rumours of a rift between the couple, who dated four years before tying the knot Dec 20, 2000, had been doing the rounds for a few months. Hrithik put the speculation to an end Friday via an official statement.

“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,” he said.

Sussanne, an interior designer and daughter of veteran actor Sanjay Khan, has called the split a matter of "individual choices".

The couple has two sons - Hrehaan, seven and Hridhaan, five.