Shefali Jariwala’s Sudden Death At 42 Sparks Cardiac Health Concerns

Actress and former reality TV star Shefali Jariwala, best known for her iconic appearance in the early 2000s music video Kaanta Laga, passed away on June 27 at the age of 42. She was found unresponsive at her home in Andheri and was declared brought dead at Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital. Preliminary reports suggest cardiac arrest as the likely cause of death. The doctors suspect a sudden drop in blood pressure as the cause of Jariwala’s death, reports Hindustan Times. Police have ruled out any foul play in the actor’s death.

Her last rites were performed in Mumbai on June 28, Saturday evening, with close family members and friends in attendance.

A video of Jariwala's husband, Parag Tyagi, breaking down during the rituals was making the rounds online. Now, a new video has surfaced online where Tyagi is seen immersing Jariwala's ashes. Surrounded by his family and friends for support, he was seen bidding a final farewell to his beloved.

Shefali Jariwala's career and journey

She held a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology from Sardar Patel College of Engineering in Gujarat. Jariwala shot to fame in 2002 at the age of 20 with Kaanta Laga, a music video that became a national sensation.

The success catapulted her into the limelight, earning her the nickname “The Kaanta Laga Girl.” She later appeared in the Bollywood film Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (2004), sharing screen space with Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar.

Shefali was previously married to musician Harmeet Singh of the Meet Bros duo. The couple divorced in 2009. In 2014, she married Jodha Akbar fame television actor Parag Tyagi, and the couple often appeared together at public events and reality shows.

Apart from films and music videos, Jariwala made a mark in Indian reality TV. She participated in Nach Baliye seasons 5 and 7, and was also a notable contestant in Bigg Boss 13, where she gained praise for her candour and resilience.

Behind the glamour, Jariwala privately struggled with epilepsy, a condition she was diagnosed with at age 15. In past interviews, she revealed that the disorder had significantly impacted her professional life, forcing her to turn down work during flare-ups. She also shared her experience dealing with depression, emphasising the importance of mental health awareness. Regular exercise and mindfulness, she said, played a crucial role in managing her condition.

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Why Is Cardiac Arrest Increasing in Youth?

There has been a sharp rise in mortality due to cardiac arrest among young people. A study by the Indian Heart Rhythm Society claims that sudden deaths from cardiac arrest have increased by 22% over the last 20 years. This has sparked concern among people.

Cardiac arrest can occur due to heart palpitations (a fast or pounding heartbeat). In many cases of sudden cardiac arrest among youth, the individuals had been engaged in physical activities that affected their heart rate.

Incorporating daily exercise into our routine while avoiding overstraining the body can help reduce the risk of cardiac arrest. Gradually building stamina and allowing the body to adapt to physical activity is essential—this is why warming up before sports is mandatory for players.

High blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, smoking, alcohol and drug consumption, and nutritional deficiencies (especially magnesium and potassium) increase the risk of cardiac arrest.

Consuming magnesium-rich foods like millet, nuts, soy products, fruits, dark green leafy vegetables, and legumes may help reduce the risk of cardiac arrest.

Chronic stress also impacts heart health by increasing inflammation, which is linked to heart-related issues. Stress can lead to poor sleep, unhealthy eating habits, and reduced physical activity, all of which negatively affect overall well-being.