In a heartbreaking loss that has left the entertainment world reeling, Shefali Jariwala, fondly known as the “Kaanta Laga Girl,” passed away at the age of 42 on the night of June 27, 2025, in Mumbai. The actress and model, whose bold and captivating presence defined a generation, reportedly suffered a sudden cardiac arrest, sending shockwaves through her fans and colleagues. Her untimely departure has sparked an outpouring of grief, with tributes flooding social media and heartfelt messages from industry peers celebrating her legacy. #ShefaliJariwala #KaantaLaga #RestInPeace
A Star Who Lit Up the 2000s
Shefali Jariwala became a household name in 2002 with her electrifying performance in the remix music video Kaanta Laga, a cultural phenomenon that took India by storm. The song, with its bold visuals and catchy beats, made her an overnight sensation, earning her the affectionate title of “Kaanta Laga Girl.” Reflecting on her iconic role in an old interview, Shefali once shared, “There can only be one Kaanta Laga girl in the world, and that is me.” Her pride in the title resonated with fans who cherished her fearless spirit.
Born on December 15, 1982, in Mumbai, Shefali’s journey in the entertainment industry spanned over two decades. Beyond Kaanta Laga, she appeared in music videos like Sweet Honey Mix and Kabhi Aar Kabhi Paar Remix, and made her Bollywood debut in the 2004 film Mujhse Shaadi Karogi alongside Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar. Her vibrant personality shone through on reality TV, where she charmed audiences on Nach Baliye with her husband, Parag Tyagi, and later on Bigg Boss 13, where her bond with the late Sidharth Shukla won hearts.
A Tragic Night in Mumbai
According to reports, Shefali suffered a cardiac arrest at her residence in Andheri, Mumbai, late on June 27. Her husband, actor Parag Tyagi, rushed her to Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital, accompanied by close friends, but doctors declared her dead on arrival. The news, confirmed by sources close to the Mumbai police, has left her family and fans devastated. A postmortem at Cooper Hospital is underway to confirm the exact cause of death, though preliminary reports point to cardiac arrest. Mumbai Police and a forensic team are investigating as part of standard procedure.
Heartbreaking visuals of Parag Tyagi, visibly shattered, have surfaced online, showing the depth of his grief. Fans and celebrities have rallied around him, with actress Rashami Desai defending him against online criticism for walking his pet dog, Simba, whom Shefali considered her “beloved son.”
Tributes Pour In from All Corners
The entertainment industry is in mourning, with tributes pouring in from colleagues and fans alike. The Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA) shared an emotional post on X: “Your presence and talent will always be remembered. 🕯️ #Shraddhanjali #ShefaliJariwala.” The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) echoed the sentiment, writing, “Gone too soon at just 42 due to a sudden heart attack. It’s hard to believe she’s gone. May her soul rest in peace.”
Celebrities like Mika Singh, Aly Goni, Munmun Dutta, and Kamya Panjabi expressed their shock and sorrow. Mika Singh wrote on Instagram, “I’m deeply shocked, saddened, and feeling a heavy heart… You will always be remembered for your grace, smile, and spirit. Om Shanti.” Munmun Dutta, star of Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, shared on Instagram Stories, “It’s too difficult to process this. Such a young, beautiful, talented soul.” Actress Monalisa and actor Shreyas Talpade also paid heartfelt tributes, with Monalisa noting Shefali’s “happy positive nature” and “magical aura.”
Fans have flooded social media with memories of Shefali’s iconic Kaanta Laga video, which has over 8 million views on YouTube, and clips from her Bigg Boss 13 stint. Her final Instagram post, shared just three days before her passing, showed her radiating glamour in a silver jumpsuit with the caption, “Bling it on baby.” The post, now viral, is filled with RIP messages, with one fan writing, “A heartbreaking reminder of how fragile life truly is.”
A Legacy That Lives On
Shefali’s journey was one of resilience and reinvention. From a college student spotted by directors Radhika Rao and Vinay Sapru to a pop culture icon, she defied expectations and embraced her identity as the Kaanta Laga girl. In a podcast with Paras Chhabra, she spoke proudly of her roots, saying, “Today, whatever I am is because of Kaanta Laga.” Her candid discussions about mental health and personal challenges on Bigg Boss 13 inspired many, showcasing her strength and authenticity.
As the industry and fans grapple with this loss, Shefali’s vibrant spirit, infectious smile, and trailblazing legacy will continue to inspire. She leaves behind her husband, Parag Tyagi, and a legion of fans who will forever remember the girl who brought Kaanta Laga to life. #GoneTooSoon #BollywoodIcon #RIPShefaliJariwala
*Stay tuned for updates on Shefali Jariwala’s final rites and further details as they emerge. Share your memories of the *Kaanta Laga* star in the comments below and join us in celebrating her incredible legacy.*