Mumbai (Commonwealth Union)_ The Indian film and television industry was struck with sorrow as actress and dancer Shefali Jariwala passed away at the age of 42 following a sudden cardiac arrest. The actress is known widely for her breakout appearance in the early 2000s remix video Kaanta Laga. According to initial reports, the incident took place at her residence in Mumbai on the night of June 27. Shefali reportedly complained of severe chest pain and discomfort. Her husband, actor Parag Tyagi, and a few close family members rushed her to Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital in Andheri.
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The hospital’s medical staff confirmed her arrival around 11:15 pm. However, a doctor on duty declared her dead upon arrival. A hospital official told the press, “She was brought to us unresponsive. Despite efforts, she could not be revived.” The exact cause of her sudden cardiac arrest remains unknown. Mumbai Police released a brief statement on Saturday, stating that her body has been sent for postmortem examination to determine the precise cause of death.
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Shefali’s popularity peaked in 2002 after she appeared in the song Kaanta Laga, which was a smash hit throughout India. The song boosted her fame and made her a household celebrity, giving her the nickname “Kaanta Laga Girl.” She later featured in Bollywood blockbusters like Mujhse Shaadi Karogi as well as popular reality TV shows like Bigg Boss 13 and Nach Baliye. Despite her public success, Shefali had previously spoken in interviews about her health concerns, including epilepsy and mental health challenges. She was previously married to musician Harmeet Singh of the Meet Brothers duo, but the marriage ended in 2009. In 2015, she married actor Parag Tyagi.
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The news of her passing has left fans, colleagues, and fellow celebrities heartbroken. Singer Mika Singh expressed his grief on Instagram, writing, “Deeply shocked… can’t believe it.” Comedian Kiku Sharda and other industry members also shared their sorrow online. The All-India Cine Workers Association released a statement mourning her death, calling it a “big loss to the entertainment industry.” Tehseen Poonawalla, a political analyst and former co-contestant from Bigg Boss, shared his condolences on social media platform X, writing, “Absolutely stunned. Life is so short. She was a kind soul. Heartbreaking to lose two people from our season.”
Fans also paid tribute across social platforms, remembering her dance performances and unique screen presence. One message read, “She danced into our hearts with Kaanta Laga and will always be remembered. Rest in peace, Shefali.” Another fan raised a question as to why young celebrities are experiencing heart issues. He asked, “Why are fit and active stars dying of cardiac arrest so early? It’s deeply concerning.” Shefali Jariwala is survived by her husband Parag Tyagi. Her sudden demise has left an emptiness in the hearts of fans and colleagues in the industry, marking a sad day for the Indian entertainment industry.
