'Kaanta Laga' Star Shefali Jariwala Dies at 42

28 June, 2025

Actor and dancer Shefali Jariwala, who shot to fame with the 2002 music video "Kaanta Laga," has died at the age of 42. She was declared dead on arrival at a Mumbai hospital late Friday night. While initial reports suggest a heart attack, police have stated the cause of death is still unclear pending a postmortem. Jariwala was also known for her participation in reality shows like "Bigg Boss" and "Nach Baliye." Her sudden passing has shocked the entertainment industry.

Unpacked:

What was Shefali Jariwala's impact on the Indian entertainment industry?

Shefali Jariwala became a pop-culture phenomenon with her 2002 music video "Kaanta Laga," which remains iconic. She expanded her career with appearances in Bollywood films, reality TV shows like "Bigg Boss 13" and "Nach Baliye," and Kannada cinema, showcasing versatility and leaving a memorable mark on Indian entertainment.

What is known about the circumstances of her death and the ongoing investigation?

Shefali Jariwala was declared dead on arrival at a Mumbai hospital late Friday night. While initial reports suggest cardiac arrest, the police have stated the official cause of death is unclear pending a postmortem. Authorities are investigating the circumstances to rule out any foul play or underlying health issues.

What were some of Shefali Jariwala's notable roles outside of "Kaanta Laga"?

Beyond "Kaanta Laga," Shefali Jariwala appeared in the Bollywood film "Mujhse Shaadi Karogi" (2004) alongside Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar, had a role in the Kannada movie "Hudugaru" (2011), participated in "Nach Baliye" and "Bigg Boss 13," and acted in web series like "Baby Come Naa".

How has the entertainment industry and public reacted to her sudden passing?

The entertainment industry and her fans have expressed shock and grief over Shefali Jariwala's unexpected death. Tributes and condolences have poured in across social media, with many remembering her as the "Kaanta Laga girl" and acknowledging her contributions to music videos, films, and reality TV.