Who Was Shefali Jariwala? A Look Back at the Life and Legacy of the Iconic ‘Kaanta Laga’ Girl

Shefali Jariwala, the actress and model who became a nationwide sensation with just one music video, passed away on June 27, 2025, at the age of 42. Her sudden death due to a cardiac arrest has left fans heartbroken and the entertainment industry in shock.

Early Life

Shefali was born in 1983 and grew up in Mumbai. Though she came from a non-film background, she broke into the spotlight with the 2002 remix music video Kaanta Laga. At a time when music videos were shaping pop culture in India, Shefali’s bold look, confident moves, and unique screen presence made her an overnight sensation.

The success of Kaanta Laga was so massive that Shefali came to be known as the “Kaanta Laga girl” — a title that would stick with her throughout her career. Her look in the video, with a backless top and a nose ring, became one of the most imitated fashion trends of the early 2000s.

Beyond the Music Video

Though she didn’t transition heavily into Bollywood films, Shefali remained active in the entertainment world. She appeared in the film Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (2004) in a supporting role, but she found greater popularity through reality television.

She and her husband Parag Tyagi, a television actor, participated in dance reality shows like Nach Baliye 5 and Nach Baliye 7, where the couple showcased their chemistry and love for performing. In 2019, Shefali joined Bigg Boss 13, one of India’s most-watched reality shows. Her calm, mature, and self-assured personality earned her praise from viewers across the country.

Personal Struggles

Behind the glamour, Shefali lived a life marked by resilience. She was open about her diagnosis of epilepsy, a condition she battled since her teenage years. In interviews, she shared how living with the condition shaped her mindset and made her mentally stronger. Later, she also spoke about dealing with depression, stressing the importance of mental health awareness and therapy.

She became a silent but strong advocate for health—physical and mental—especially for women in the spotlight. Her willingness to speak about her struggles made her relatable to many fans who saw her as more than just a celebrity.

Love and Relationships

Shefali was previously married to music composer Harmeet Singh of the Meet Bros duo, but the relationship ended in divorce. She later found love again with Parag Tyagi, whom she married in 2014. The two often shared glimpses of their life together on social media and in interviews, presenting a supportive and understanding partnership.

Sudden Farewell

On the night of June 27, 2025, Shefali reportedly complained of sudden chest pain. She was rushed to Bellevue Hospital in Mumbai by her husband and close friends. Sadly, she was declared dead on arrival. The cause of death was confirmed as cardiac arrest.

Her sudden passing came as a shock to the public, with fans, celebrities, and former co-stars expressing their grief online. Many called her a “cultural icon” who brought something fresh to Indian pop culture in the early 2000s.

A Lasting Legacy

Shefali Jariwala’s journey wasn’t defined by a long list of film credits, but by her strong presence in everything she did. Whether it was a three-minute music video or a month-long stint on reality TV, she left an impression.

She broke stereotypes, lived on her terms, and spoke up about real issues many women face but few talk about. In doing so, she created a legacy much deeper than just a viral video.

Shefali may be gone, but her spirit—fierce, bold, and inspiring—will remain in the memories of those who admired her courage and charm.