Actress and former reality TV star Shefali Jariwala, widely remembered for her breakout appearance in the early 2000s hit music video Kaanta Laga and later for her stint on Bigg Boss 13, passed away late Friday night following a cardiac arrest at her Mumbai residence. She was 41. Her sudden demise has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, leaving fans and fellow celebrities stunned and grieving.
According to reports, Shefali collapsed at home after complaining of discomfort. Her husband, actor Parag Tyagi, immediately rushed her to the hospital, but doctors declared her dead on arrival. The cause is believed to be a cardiac arrest, although her body has been sent for a post-mortem, with results expected by Saturday morning. Visuals from outside the hospital showed a distraught Parag Tyagi in tears, while the family is yet to release an official statement.
Tributes have poured in from across the entertainment fraternity. Singer Mika Singh shared his grief on Instagram, saying, “I’m deeply shocked, saddened, and feeling a heavy heart… Our beloved star and my dearest friend @shefalijariwala has left us. Still can’t believe it.” Television actor Aly Goni posted a brief but emotional message on his Instagram story: “RIP Shefali.” Divyanka Tripathi expressed her disbelief, commenting, “It’s unbelievable. We are shocked and sad for the family.”
Tehseen Poonawalla, who appeared with Shefali on Bigg Boss 13, wrote, “Absolutely stunned to hear my friend Shefali Jariwala is no more… Incredible how #SidharthShukla and now she from my season are no more.” Actor and comedian Kiku Sharda, who had worked with her on web shows, said, “She was full of energy, full of life, always greeted all with a big, bright smile. Will miss you, Shefali, you were a beautiful soul. Rest in Peace.”
Shefali shot to stardom in 2002 with the remix of Kaanta Laga, becoming an overnight sensation. She later appeared in the Bollywood film Mujhse Shaadi Karogi alongside Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar. She was also a contestant on Nach Baliye, where she performed with her husband. Her entry into Bigg Boss 13 generated headlines, particularly due to her past relationship with fellow contestant and late actor Sidharth Shukla.
The sudden loss of Shefali Jariwala has left a void in the hearts of fans and colleagues alike, many of whom have remembered her for her grace, vivacious personality, and kind spirit.
