Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 28: Shefali Jariwala, the actress and dancer who rose to nationwide fame with her electrifying performance in the iconic music video ‘Kaanta Laga,’ passed away on Friday at the age of 42, sending shockwaves through the entertainment industry.
Jariwala was found dead at her Andheri residence in Mumbai. Police and forensic teams arrived at her home after Mumbai Police received a call about the incident around 1 am. “Her body was found at her residence. It has been sent to Cooper Hospital for a post-mortem. The cause of death is not yet confirmed,” a police source said. While some reports suggest cardiac arrest as a possible cause, there has been no official statement.
The All Indian Cine Workers Association confirmed her passing on social media, writing, “Shefali Jariwala is no longer with us. Gone too soon at just 42 due to a sudden heart attack. May her soul rest in peace, and may God give strength to her family during this heartbreaking time.”
The news sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes from colleagues and friends.
- Tehseen Poonawalla, her Bigg Boss 13 co-contestant, wrote, “Absolutely stunned… Life is so short. Incredible how Siddharth Shukla and now she from my season are no more. Sending love and healing to her loved ones.”
- Actor Aly Goni shared, “Shocked and saddened… Life is so unpredictable. Rest in peace.”
- Comedian Kiku Sharda, who worked with her on web shows, remembered her as “full of energy, full of life… Will miss you Shefali.”
- Actress Kishwer Merchant expressed her sorrow on Instagram, posting, “Lying in bed with a very heavy heart! RIP Shefali, gone too soon!”
Jariwala became a household name with her 2002 appearance in ‘Kaanta Laga,’ a remix of the classic 1970s Bollywood song, which made her an instant pop culture icon. She also acted in films, including the 2004 blockbuster ‘Mujhse Shaadi Karogi’ alongside Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar.
On television, she gained further fame through reality shows like ‘Bigg Boss 13’ and ‘Nach Baliye’ seasons 5 and 7, where she participated with her husband, actor Parag Tyagi.
Beyond her performances, Jariwala was a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and women’s empowerment. She openly shared her struggles with epilepsy, using her platform to inspire and support others facing similar challenges.
She is survived by her husband, Parag Tyagi, with whom she shared a close personal and professional bond. Her sudden death has left fans, friends, and the entertainment industry in mourning.