Shefali Jariwala, best known for her iconic appearance in the 2002 music video Kaanta Laga, passed away on Friday night at the age of 42 following an apparent cardiac arrest. While the official cause of death is yet to be confirmed by authorities, the sudden demise of the actor has left the entertainment industry and fans in deep shock.
On Saturday evening, she was cremated at Mumbai's Oshiwara Crematorium, where her husband, actor Parag Tyagi, performed the last rites in the presence of grieving family, friends, and colleagues from the television and film fraternity.
Shefali Jariwala Cremated at Oshiwara Crematorium
Several celebrities attended the cremation to bid their final farewell. Parag Tyagi was seen in a heart-wrenching moment, breaking down in tears as he performed the last rites of his wife.
Family, Friends, and TV Stars Pay Their Respects
Earlier in the day, Shefali’s body was kept at her residence in Andheri, Mumbai, where family members, close friends, and fellow television stars gathered to offer condolences and pay their last respects. Aarti Singh, Mahira Sharma, and Rashami Desai were among the first to visit.
Popular singer Sunidhi Chauhan, also seen at the residence, appeared visibly emotional. Paras Chhabra, Hindustani Bhau, Shehnaaz Gill, and Vikas Gupta were also spotted during the mourning period.
Ex-Husband Harmeet Singh Shares Emotional Tribute
Shefali’s ex-husband, singer Harmeet Singh of the Meet Bros duo, took to Instagram to express his sorrow and disbelief. Currently in Europe, Harmeet couldn’t attend the funeral but shared a heartfelt note along with an old photograph of Shefali:
"One of the most shocking moments of my life. I'm absolutely shattered and in disbelief after hearing about Shefali's sudden and untimely demise. We shared a few beautiful years together a long time ago--memories I'll always hold close to my heart. My deepest condolences to her parents, Satish ji and Sunita ji, her husband Parag, and her sister Shivani. Being away in Europe right now, it's painful for me not to be there for the last rites. Gone far too soon. I pray to the Almighty for her soul to rest in peace and for strength to her family during this unimaginable time. Jai Shree Krishna."
The Journey of Shefali Jariwala: From 'Kaanta Laga' to Bigg Boss
Shefali shot to fame in 2002 at just 19 years old with the hit remix video Kaanta Laga, which made her an overnight sensation. However, she chose to stay away from the limelight for much of her career due to her battle with epilepsy. Over two decades, Shefali appeared in only two films and a few television shows.
In 2020, she made headlines again as a contestant on Bigg Boss 13, and earlier participated in Nach Baliye with husband Parag Tyagi.
Declared Dead on Arrival at Mumbai Hospital
On the night of her death, Shefali was rushed to Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital in Mumbai by Parag Tyagi and three others. Unfortunately, doctors declared her dead on arrival, marking a heartbreaking end to a life remembered for both its brilliance and battles.