Shefali Jariwala death: Autopsy conducted, no foul play suspected

The sudden death of actor and reality TV star Shefali Jariwala, 42, has been classified as a case of natural or accidental death, with Mumbai Police ruling out foul play following a post-mortem conducted at Cooper Hospital. While the official cause of death is still under review, authorities have registered an Accidental Death Report (ADR) and stated that no suspicious circumstances were found.

“She was brought to the hospital around 11:15 pm on Friday and was declared dead on arrival,” a hospital source confirmed. Police received the alert around 1 am on Saturday and dispatched a mobile forensic team to her residence in the Golden Rays-Y building.

“The autopsy has been completed, but the cause of death is reserved pending further forensic analysis,” a senior officer said, adding, “Based on preliminary information, it appears to be a natural death.”

Shefali Jariwala was rushed to Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital in suburban Mumbai by her husband, actor Parag Tyagi, after she reportedly complained of severe chest pain and collapsed at home. Despite efforts to revive her, doctors declared her dead on arrival.

Her funeral has since been held, and the final autopsy report is awaited.

While cardiac arrest remains the most likely cause, some media reports have noted Shefali's history of epilepsy, a condition she had been managing since adolescence. Experts have flagged SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy) as a potential factor, although this remains unconfirmed.

Additionally, unverified claims suggest the actor had been undergoing anti-ageing treatments for several years. Though there is no medical evidence linking such procedures to her death, the speculation has sparked public discussion around cosmetic treatments and their risks. Doctors emphasize that such complications are rare and typically non-fatal.

Shefali Jariwala became a household name in 2002 with the release of Kaanta Laga, a remix that catapulted her to instant fame. She went on to appear in Mujhse Shaadi Karogi and gained renewed popularity through reality shows like Nach Baliye and Bigg Boss 13.

She was married to actor Parag Tyagi, with whom she often shared the screen on dance-based television shows.

As fans continue to mourn her loss, many await the final forensic report for closure. For now, police have closed the door on any foul play, focusing instead on medical explanations behind the actor’s sudden demise.