Shefali Jariwala, Iconic 'Kaanta Laga Girl,' Dies at 42

Mumbai, June 27, 2025 — The entertainment world is in mourning after reports emerged that Indian actress and model Shefali Jariwala, best known for her breakout role in the 2002 remix video Kaanta Laga and her stint on Bigg Boss 13, passed away at the age of 42 following a sudden cardiac arrest.

Jariwala was rushed from her Andheri residence in Mumbai to Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital by her husband, actor Parag Tyagi, and three others late on Friday night. However, hospital sources confirmed she was declared dead upon arrival. According to the reception staff, “Shefali had expired before she was brought in”. Her body has since been sent to Cooper Hospital for a post-mortem examination.

Cause of Death & Ongoing Investigation

While initial reports indicated a cardiac arrest, Mumbai Police have launched an investigation. Some early findings suggest that Jariwala may have taken her regular medication combined with an anti-ageing injection on an empty stomach—possibly triggering a fatal drop in blood pressure. Authorities have said they do not suspect foul play, but await autopsy and toxicology results to confirm the cause.

Emotional Farewells & Public Grief

A private yet deeply felt funeral took place. Parag Tyagi was seen performing the last rites at Juhu Beach, visibly heartbroken as he kneeled to immerse her ashes. The somber proceedings included a poignant moment when he kissed her forehead one final time, a gesture captured by viral footage.

Colleagues and friends like Mika Singh, Aly Goni, Shehnaaz Gill, and Sunidhi Chauhan expressed their sorrow publicly. Actress Vahbiz Dorabjee, Jariwala’s former neighbor, mourned her sudden loss, recalling her as “full of life—always cheerful, always smiling”.

Remembering Her Journey

Born December 15, 1982, in Ahmedabad, Jariwala rose to fame at age 20 when spotted by music video directors and cast in the Kaanta Laga remix—a cultural phenomenon that earned her the title “Kaanta Laga Girl”. She later acted in Bollywood films like Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, Shaitani Rasmein, and Hudugaru. She also participated in reality shows: Nach Baliye 5, Nach Baliye 7 (with Parag Tyagi), and Bigg Boss 13. In 2018, she led the ALT Balaji web series Baby Come Naa.

The Bigger Conversation: Health & Heart Awareness

Her sudden cardiac arrest at a relatively young age has reignited conversations about cardiovascular risks and wellness—especially in a high-pressure industry. Jariwala is the latest in a series of Indian celebrities who have succumbed to such health crises, following IKK’s KK, actor Sidharth Shukla, Puneeth Rajkumar, and others.

Legacy & Final Thoughts

Shefali Jariwala's rise to fame—and her untimely passing—leave behind a legacy of cinematic achievement, personal warmth, and reflection on wellness. Her blend of charisma and candor made her a beloved figure; now, her absence is a profound loss to fans and the entertainment community alike.

As Mumbai Police await official autopsy results, fans continue to send their condolences, and the entertainment world awaits closure on a life that shone brightly—albeit briefly.