In a statement circulated to the media by Harris Jayaraj's PRO, Nikhil Murugan has announced the ace music director has parted ways with his director 'friend' Gautham Vasudev Menon. The latest film by the famous twosome, 'Vaaranam Aayiram', will probably be their last one together.

Harris and Gautham made their debut together through the 2001 romantic musical, 'Minnale', which remained the chart buster for many years. They worked together in many films like 'Kakka Kakka', 'Vettaiyadu Vilaiyadu' and 'Pachaikkili Muthucharam'.

Harris said in his statement: "I have respect for Gautham Menon and in return he has also reciprocated the same way. But now, things have gone sour, so, it is better for us to part ways as good friends leaving behind some beautiful memories. I have to take this decision on behalf of us."

The music director also said that he was thankful to the Almighty for having made their association a fruitful and enterprising one. He added that he owes his present status to his successful union with Gautham, stating that he respected the director a lot for his talents and traits, and that the admiration was mutual as Gautham too held him in high esteem.

Harris also appealed to his fans to excuse him for dissociating with Gautham, thanking them and the print and television media for declaring the songs of 'Vaaranam Aayiram' as superhit.

The news of the split is being considered as another big setback to Gautham, who was recently terminated from Ajith starrer Sivaji Productions venture 'Surangani'.