On June 27, 2025, actress-model Shefali Jariwala—popularly known as the “Kaanta Laga Girl”—suddenly fainted and died in her Mumbai home. She was rushed to Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital at just 42 years old, but was declared dead on arrival.
What we know so far
Police say Shefali had taken anti-ageing injections along with her regular medication while fasting for a puja that night and then her blood pressure dropped sharply, following which she suffered a heart attack.
Her post-mortem is inconclusive, with viscera samples sent for toxicology to ascertain if anti-ageing drugs played any role.
The Mumbai police have ruled out any foul play and have registered a case of accidental death.
- Not all anti-ageing treatments are harmless
Many injections—such as glutathione, hormones or peptides—can have adverse effects on the heart and blood pressure, especially when used accidentally or in combination with other drugs.
An example: Shefali’s drug cocktail may have thrown off her cardiovascular balance, causing a sudden, fatal drop in blood pressure. - Skipping meals = more risk
Taking powerful drugs on an empty stomach drastically alters their absorption and metabolism.
Experts warn that some drugs require food to be absorbed faster—without which side effects can increase.
Shefali had been fasting earlier that day, potentially increasing the overdose-like effects. - The allure—and danger—of unregulated treatments
India lacks unified regulation for cosmetic injections. Boomers, influencers and amateurs without medical training can present themselves as “cosmetologists.” A leading dermatologist warns:
“You don’t know if it’s fake or safe for human use,” and insists that “it’s criminal when unqualified practitioners gamble with lives”.
- Underlying health problems can increase risk
Shefali has reportedly suffered from epilepsy since the age of 15 – a condition associated with SUDEP (sudden unexpected death in epilepsy), where seizures can trigger dangerous heart rhythms.
Although no seizures or arrhythmias were reported that night, the combination of her underlying condition, fasting and medication may have created a perfect storm.
- Mental and emotional pressure on women
In a high-pressure, social-media-driven world, the desire to stay young can be unhealthy. Psychiatrists warn that this mental burden, combined with aggressive treatments, can take a serious emotional and physical toll.
🚨 What needs to change – and what you can do
For individuals:
Always consult a qualified physician, preferably a registered dermatologist or endocrinologist.
Be wary of online cosmetic trends – especially injections purchased from unverified sellers.
Avoid taking powerful supplements or hormones on an empty stomach.
Tell any healthcare provider about all medications and conditions (such as epilepsy, cardiac problems).
For policymakers and regulators:
Enforce strict licensing and monitoring for beauty treatments and injections.
Crack down on fake or unregulated anti-ageing medicines sold online.
Run public awareness campaigns about the risks of polypharmacy and unverified treatments.
For society:
Encourage a culture where ageing is not stigmatised – beauty should not mean harming yourself.
Don’t stigmatise discussions about mental health and body image stress for women.
🕊️ Tribute to Shefali
Shefali Jariwala’s untimely death should not only deepen our grief – but also prompt action. It’s not about blaming injectables, but about using them safely and wisely. Key points in her story include:
Risk area Main concern
Drug use Powerful drugs + fasting = potential harm
Dose mixing Combining drugs without medical supervision
Regulation Lack of oversight in cosmetic treatments
Health conditions Hidden vulnerabilities such as epilepsy
Mental health Emotional stress leading to risky cosmetic choices
Anti-ageing medicine is not the villain – when used with transparency, professional oversight and good medical advice, it can be part of healthy ageing. But risky practices, unqualified providers and a lack of awareness can turn the pursuit of beauty into tragedy.
Shefali’s legacy must lead to a change – towards safer protocols, better regulation and a societal change that values health over hype.
