June 29, 2025: Actor Varun Dhawan has strongly criticized sections of the media for their intrusive coverage of celebrity funerals, calling it “insensitive” and “uncomfortable” for those grieving. His remarks come in the wake of the widely circulated visuals from the funeral of actor-model Shefali Jariwala, who passed away on June 27 following a sudden cardiac arrest.
Taking to his Instagram Stories, Dhawan wrote,
“Again one more passing of a soul being insensitively covered by the media. I just don’t understand why do you have to cover someone’s grief. Everyone looks so uncomfortable with this. How is this benefitting anyone?
“My request to my friends in the media, this isn’t the way someone would want their final journey covered,” he added.
While Dhawan did not name anyone directly, his comments closely followed heartbreaking visuals of Shefali’s grieving family at her cremation — particularly her husband, actor Parag Tyagi, who was seen requesting the press,
“Meri pari ke liye pray kijiyega aap sab log, please.” (“Please pray for my angel, all of you.”)
Probe Launched Into Sudden Death
Shefali Jariwala, 42, best known for her appearance in the music video Kaanta Laga, reportedly collapsed at home and was rushed to Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital, where she was declared dead on arrival. Authorities have launched an investigation into her sudden death.
A post-mortem examination was conducted at Cooper Hospital, and it was video-recorded by a panel of five doctors. Preliminary reports suggest that low blood pressure, cardiac arrest, and a severe gastric condition could be contributing factors. Investigators are also looking into her use of anti-ageing medications, which she had reportedly been taking for the last 7–8 years.
A source told NDTV,
“So far in the police investigation, it has come to light that these medicines could be a major reason for cardiac arrest.”
Police have gathered seven CCTV recordings and recorded statements from 14 individuals, including close family, staff, and a pharmacist. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are awaiting the final autopsy report.
A Larger Conversation
Varun Dhawan’s statement has reignited the debate around the ethics of media coverage during personal tragedies — particularly in the case of celebrities whose lives are often under constant scrutiny. Many public figures and fans have since echoed his sentiments, calling for a more respectful and humane approach during moments of grief.