Kajal Jatav: Today the world felt silent as Shefali left us. Shefali Jariwala also known as the ‘Kanta Laga Girl’, was the pop icon of India. Many of us must have heard that song and also have danced to it, which was very popular at that time, and of course, through this song, Shefali got famous.
Shefali’s final days and sudden passing
On the night of 27 June 2025, Shefali was taken by her husband Parag to Bellevue Multispecialty Hospital in Andheri after complaining of chest pain. Sadly, doctors declared her dead upon arrival. Initial reports declare cardiac arrest as the suspected cause, though Mumbai Police has launched an investigation and ordered a post-mortem at Cooper Hospital. Medical experts have speculated on a link between her epilepsy and sudden cardiac events-known as SUDEP (Sudden Unexplained Death in Epilepsy)-though authorities have not confirmed this.
Background and Challenges
In a candid 2021 interview, Shefali revealed that she had battled epilepsy since age 15, triggered by academic stress and anxiety, which also impacted her self-esteem. She said, “I had an epilepsy seizure at the age of 15, stress and anxiety can trigger seizures. Depression can lead to a seizure and vice versa.” She managed the condition through yoga, breathing techniques, and lifestyle discipline, remaining seizure-free for over 15-20 years.
Career: Film & TV
She married a musician, Harmeet Singh, in 2004 but divorced in 2009 amid allegations of domestic issues. In 2015, she found love again and married actor Parag Tyagi, with whom she shared a strong bond and danced on Nach Baliye together.
Following her breakthrough with ‘Kanta Laga’ by DJ Doll, Shefali appeared in the Salman-Akshay comedy ‘Mujhse Shaadi Karogi‘ (2004), delivering a memorable cameo. Transitioning to television, she later danced alongside Parag Tyagi on Nach Baliye 5 (2012).
In 2028, she took the lead in ALT Balaji’s web series Baby Come Naa and in 2019 shot to renewed prominence with a dramatic stint on Big Boss 13, where her rekindled friendship with ex-boyfriend Siddharth Shukla became a talking point.
Legacy and Tribute
Shefali leaves behind a poignant legacy-an entertainer who is known for bold confidence, openness and resilience. Her career spanned music, film, television, and web series, leaving an impact on Indian pop culture.
Celebrities and fans took to social media to share their grief. Singer Mika Singh wrote: “I’m deeply shocked, saddened… Our beloved dear friend has left us.” Fellow Big Boss 13 contestant Aly Goni also expressed sorrow at her sudden loss. Media and organisations like the All-Indian Cine Workers Association echoed this collective mourning.
From igniting a music-video revolution with Kaanta Laga to sharing her struggles publicly with strength and honestly-Shefali Jariwala will be remembered not just for her charisma but for her courage. She defined stereotypes, embraced her vulnerabilities, and inspired many through her candidness about epilepsy and mental health. In her passing, we have lost more than a celebrity-we have lost a champion of resilience.