Payal Rohatgi Slammed Over Chat Netizens Claim References Shefali Jariwala’s Death
Payal Rohatgi is under fire after her WhatsApp conversations with journalists surfaced online, drawing widespread criticism for comments perceived as tone-deaf particularly in the wake of Shefali Jariwala’s sudden passing.
Actor and former Bigg Boss contestant Payal Rohatgi is under fire after her WhatsApp conversations with journalists surfaced online, drawing widespread criticism for comments perceived as tone-deaf and hurtful, particularly in the wake of actress-model Shefali Jariwala’s sudden passing.
Shefali, who died on June 27, was reportedly found with anti-ageing and skin-enhancing supplements in her apartment, prompting speculative chatter online about the possible cause of her death. Amid this, Payal’s viral chats have added fuel to the fire, with many believing she indirectly referenced Shefali in a derogatory manner.
Was Payal Rohatgi's response directed to Shefali Jariwala's death?
A WhatsApp exchange between Payal and a journalist began with the journalist asking about persistent rumours regarding her marriage to wrestler Sangram Singh.
“Hey Payal, good morning! I hope you’re doing well. There have been some reports going around suggesting that things might not be okay between you and Sangram, and that you both might be heading for a divorce. Is there any truth to these rumours? Just wanted to check with you,” read the message.
What followed, however, stunned many. Payal responded, “Sorry to know Vijaya that u are suffering from depression. Kindly don’t do drugs in the day… Overdose might kill.”
When the journalist clarified she wasn’t publishing a story but merely checking in, Payal doubled down, “And then it will be called that anti-aging medication did that to u by your own paper.”
Although she didn’t take any names, many social media users interpreted her words as a veiled dig at Shefali Jariwala’s tragic death. Matters escalated when Payal shared screenshots of the chat on her Instagram story on July 9.
Payal's insensitive remarks on mental health
In another conversation with a different journalist, Payal wrote, “Hope you are not into depression and drinking.”
When confronted over her remarks trivialising mental illness, she replied, “When you all made fun of my mental health did I react like this? As a journalist don’t f**k around with me again. Go file your story.”
She also temporarily blocked the journalist and later sent a final message that read, “U all have been following me since 3 years waiting for me to crumble. U think I am born yesterday? Karma comes for all. How ever sweet u portray like fraud. Now I hope you will kindly get lost.”
Social media reacts
The leaked chats quickly found their way to Reddit, where users condemned her conduct. One user wrote, “If you can’t handle questions, then stop putting your life out for public consumption. And the worst part? She’s clearly making a vile insinuation about how Shefali Jariwala died. That’s not just despicable, it’s cruel, and shameful.”
Another Redditor noted, “She was always like this. Not just belittling depression and calling it drug overdose—please read the last line too. She is absolutely insensitive.”
Payal and Sangram divorce rumours
Divorce rumours surrounding Payal Rohatgi and Sangram Singh began circulating after the actress publicly shared her resignation from the post of director at the Sangram Singh Charitable Foundation. The move sparked speculation about trouble in their marriage. However, Sangram swiftly addressed the buzz, clarifying that all is well between them. “There is no talk of divorce between us. We have been together for 14 years and will always be,” he said, adding that he respects Payal’s decision to step down and that they simply have different approaches to work. Payal had posted her resignation letter on Instagram, citing personal reasons for her exit. Read full story here
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