Actor Varun Dhawan has called out the paparazzi for their insensitive coverage following the sudden death of ‘Kaanta Laga’ and ‘Bigg Boss 13’ fame actor Shefali Jariwala. Varun urged media outlets to show compassion and respect in times of grief, as videos of Shefali’s emotional funeral went viral, sparking outrage over the intrusive behaviour of photographers.
On Sunday, the actor posted on his Instagram handle and wrote, “Again, one more passing of a soul being insensitively covered by the media. I just don’t understand why do u have to cover someone’s grief. Everyone looks so uncomfortable with this. How is this benefiting anyone? & my request to my friends in the media, this isn’t the way someone would want their final journey covered (sic)”
Meanwhile, many celebrities and close friends from the industry have reacted to the heartbreaking news. Priyanka Chopra Jonas offered condolences to Shefali Jariwala’s family as she posted on her Instagram Story. Sharing a photo of Shefali Jariwala, Priyanka wrote, “So shook. She was too young. Sending condolences to Parag and the family (sic)”
Shefali Jariwala died at the age of 42 on Friday night. Her husband, actor Parag Tyagi, rushed her to the hospital, where she was declared dead on arrival. Her body was later sent for a post-mortem. A police official stated that the cause of death has been “reserved” and ruled out any foul play.
On Saturday, Shefali’s last rites were performed in Mumbai, where friends and family gathered to say their final goodbyes. However, the atmosphere turned tense as the paparazzi continued filming grieving family members. A video of Shefali’s mother crying inconsolably circulated online, as did footage of Parag Tyagi repeatedly pleading with the media for privacy.
“Mazak, drama mat banaiyega, main sabse request karta hoon. Please pray for my pari (angel). Please pray for her peace. Please aap bandh kijiyega,” Parag requested with folded hands after the funeral.
So far, the police have gathered seven CCTV footage clips and taken statements from 14 individuals, including family members, household staff, and others who were in regular contact with Shefali.
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