Chennai, Aug 4 (IANS): Tamil filmmaker Vijay, who is officially separating from his wife Amala Paul, a popular southern actress, says he never expected his marriage to end on such a note.

"I have been reading plenty of news on the separation of me and Amala based on random assumptions and false information. I would like to make it clear that the only truth in that is the separation and rest all is untrue. The reason behind the separation is unknown to anyone but me," Vijay said in a statement.

He also clarified that he's not separating from Amala because his family doesn't support her decision to continue acting in films.

"I'm conscious about my social responsibility; I have so far directed 9 films. I have always portrayed women in my films with dignity and self respect, and it reflects the amount of respect I have towards them. I strongly advocate women and their freedom of choice," he said.

"When Amala wanted to continue her career in films, I supported her to the best of my ability. And she continued acting even after marriage. The new found accusation that I or my family was stopping her from work is completely untrue," he added.

Vijay and Amala got married on June 12, 2014.

Explaining what led to the separation, Vijay said: "The base for any marital relationship is honesty and trust and when that is breached the very existence of committed relationship becomes meaningless."

"I really value the institution of marriage and relationship a lot. Not even in my worst dreams, did I think it will end. But yes, today I don't have any choice. With lot of pain in my heart, I have decided to move on in life in a dignified manner," he added.