Varun Dhawan Calls for Media Sensitivity Following Shefali Jariwala's Funeral Coverage

Actor's Plea for Respect in Grief

Varun Dhawan has voiced his concerns regarding the media's insensitive portrayal of actress Shefali Jariwala’s funeral, urging photographers and news organizations to exercise 'respect' and 'sensitivity' during such personal moments of sorrow.

In a heartfelt message shared on his Instagram Stories, Dhawan addressed the paparazzi who disseminated videos and images of Jariwala’s mourning family, including her husband, actor Parag Tyagi, after her unexpected passing.

He expressed, 'Once again, we witness the insensitive coverage of someone's passing. I fail to comprehend why the media feels the need to invade someone's grief—everyone appears so uncomfortable with this. What benefit does this serve?' Dhawan remarked.

He further implored his media colleagues, stating, 'This is not how anyone would wish for their final moments to be documented.'

His remarks came in response to the extensive sharing of footage from Jariwala’s funeral, where Tyagi and other relatives were visibly heartbroken. Tyagi, clearly affected, folded his hands before the cameras and emotionally requested, 'Meri pari ke liye pray kijiyega aap sab log, please' ('Please pray for my angel, everyone').

Shefali Jariwala, renowned for her role in the 2004 film 'Mujhse Shaadi Karogi' alongside Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar, tragically passed away late Friday night. She was taken to Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital in Mumbai, where she was pronounced dead upon arrival.

Jariwala gained fame with her iconic appearance in the music video 'Kaanta Laga' and became a familiar face through various reality TV shows. She participated in 'Bigg Boss 13' (2019) and appeared on 'Nach Baliye' (Seasons 5 and 7), the latter alongside her husband Parag Tyagi.

Her sudden demise has ignited a larger discussion about privacy, dignity, and the ethical responsibilities of the media during times of personal loss—an issue that actors like Varun Dhawan are now deeming critical and overdue.