Actor Shefali Jariwala, widely known for her iconic appearance in the 2002 music video Kaanta Laga, was cremated on Saturday evening at Oshiwara Crematorium in Mumbai. The 42-year-old reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest late Friday night, though the official cause of death is yet to be confirmed by authorities.
Her husband, actor Parag Tyagi, performed the last rites in an emotional ceremony attended by friends, family, and several personalities from the film and television industry. Heart-wrenching visuals showed Tyagi breaking down as he bid a tearful farewell to his wife.
Throughout Saturday, Shefali’s residence in Andheri saw a steady stream of mourners, including popular television celebrities such as Aarti Singh, Mahira Sharma, and Rashami Desai, who arrived to pay their final respects before her body was taken for cremation.
Singer Sunidhi Chauhan also visited the late actor’s home, visibly emotional over the tragic loss. Other known personalities, including Paras Chhabra, Hindustani Bhau, Shehnaaz Gill, and Vikas Gupta, were spotted arriving to offer their condolences.
Shefali’s former husband, singer Harmeet Singh of the Meet Bros duo, shared a touching tribute on Instagram, expressing shock and sorrow over her untimely passing. Unable to attend the funeral due to being in Europe, Harmeet wrote:
“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… 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.”
Shefali’s Rise to Fame and Health Struggles
Shefali Jariwala catapulted to fame at the age of 19 with the chart-topping music video Kaanta Laga, which made her a household name. Despite the early success, she stepped away from the limelight to focus on her health, as she had been battling epilepsy for years.
Over the past two decades, her appearances remained selective, including roles in just two films and a few television shows. Her most notable TV appearances include Nach Baliye—where she competed alongside husband Parag Tyagi—and Bigg Boss 13 in 2020, where she garnered renewed attention from audiences.
On Friday night, Shefali was rushed to Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital by Parag and others, but doctors declared her dead on arrival.
Her passing has left the entertainment industry and her fans in mourning, remembering her not only for her work but also for her resilience and spirit.
