The sudden demise of Shefali Jariwala, the actress and model famed for her "Kaanta Laga" appearance, has prompted a police investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death. Jariwala, 42, was declared dead upon arrival at Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital in Andheri on June 27, leaving her fans and colleagues in shock.
Initial reports suggest a possible cardiac arrest as the cause of death, although authorities are awaiting the results of the autopsy and forensic analysis to confirm the exact reason. According to police sources, Jariwala had been managing a neurological disorder and was on medication.
However, new details have emerged indicating that a sudden drop in blood pressure may have been a contributing factor. Sources suggest that Shefali had been fasting for a puja at home on the day of her death. She also took her regular medication and an anti-aging injection in the afternoon, something she had been using for the past few years under medical supervision. Police sources quoted by The Indian Express said her blood pressure dropped later that night, and she started shivering. It's suspected that taking medication on an empty stomach may have worsened her condition.
Authorities are exploring all possibilities and have not ruled anything out pending a thorough review of forensic reports. The post-mortem has been completed, but the cause of death remains inconclusive. Doctors at Cooper Hospital have reserved their opinion pending forensic analysis, prompting the police to register an Accidental Death Report (ADR). Blood and viscera samples have been preserved and sent to the Kalina Forensic Science Laboratory for detailed analysis.
The investigation has so far found no signs of foul play. State home minister Yogesh Kadam told reporters that police would act if any complaint arises.
Her last rites were performed at Oshiwara Hindu crematorium on Saturday evening, with family, friends, and colleagues in attendance. Her husband Parag Tyagi, father Satish Jariwala, and sister Shivani Jariwala performed the final rituals.