The directors of the iconic music video "Kaanta Laga," Radhika Rao and Vinay Sapru, have announced they will never create a sequel following the death of Shefali Jariwala. Jariwala, who rose to fame with her appearance in the 2002 music video, passed away on June 27, at the age of 42, reportedly due to cardiac arrest.
Rao and Sapru expressed their shock and grief over Jariwala's untimely demise. They fondly recalled their time working with her on "Kaanta Laga," emphasizing that she was, and always would be, the only "Kaanta Laga girl". In a statement, the directors said, "You Always Said You Wanted To Be The One And Only 'Kaanta Laga' Girl. So We Never Made A Sequel -- And We Never Will. We're Retiring 'Kaanta Laga' Forever. It Was Always Yours. It Will Always Be Yours... Shefali...RIP". They also mentioned how they discovered Shefali while driving on Linking Road in Bandra.
Shefali Jariwala was rushed to Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital on Friday night by her husband, Parag Tyagi, after suffering a cardiac arrest. She was declared dead upon arrival. Her body was then taken to Cooper Hospital for a postmortem to determine the exact cause of death. While initial reports suggested cardiac arrest, other details have emerged, pointing to a combination of low blood pressure, gastric distress, and possible self-medication as potential contributing factors.
Mumbai Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Jariwala's death. A forensic team was present at her Andheri residence to conduct a thorough search. While no official statement has been released, police officials have stated that the cause of death is not yet clear and that the postmortem report is pending.
Reports indicate that Jariwala had been fasting for a religious puja and consumed stale fried rice on the day of her death. Additionally, she had been taking anti-aging injections monthly for several years without recent medical advice. Police found glutathione, vitamin C injections, and acidity pills at her home, raising concerns about self-medication. Medical experts have warned that such treatments, especially during fasting, can put a strain on the heart. It was also revealed that Jariwala had been diagnosed with epilepsy at the age of 15.
The news of Shefali Jariwala's death has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with many celebrities expressing their condolences. Priyanka Chopra wrote, "So saddened. She was so young. My condolences to Parag and family". The All Indian Cine Workers Association also shared their grief, stating, "Shefali Jariwala is no longer with us. 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, and may God give strength to her family during this heartbreaking time".
Jariwala's career began at the age of 20 with "Kaanta Laga," which became a massive hit and made her a household name. Despite not having a prominent Bollywood career afterward, she appeared in several music albums, films like "Mujhse Shaadi Karogi," and web series like "Baby Come Naa". She also participated in reality shows like "Nach Baliye," "Boogie Woogie," and "Bigg Boss 13".
In an earlier interview, Shefali discussed the bizarre rumors that circulated after the release of "Kaanta Laga," including false claims about her death. She recalled how news channels even picked up the story, and people constantly called to inquire if she had passed away.
Shefali Jariwala is survived by her husband, Parag Tyagi.
