“Kaanta Laga” Fame Shefali Jariwala Opens Up on Battling Epilepsy: Why She Stepped Back from the Spotlight

Shefali Jariwala, who became a household name after the chartbuster Kaanta Laga in the early 2000s, recently spoke candidly about her long struggle with epilepsy — a condition that silently shaped her career choices and personal life. While her music video fame was meteoric, few knew the health battle that limited her ability to pursue more work during her peak.

The Sudden Rise, Then Silence

After her sensational debut in Kaanta Laga, Shefali became an overnight star. The remix culture of the time had turned her into one of the most recognized faces in Indian pop entertainment. Yet, just as quickly as she rose to fame, her appearances in the public eye became rare.

Many wondered why she wasn’t seen much in films or television, especially at a time when music video stars often transitioned to mainstream cinema. It wasn’t due to a lack of opportunity — Shefali revealed it was her health that made it difficult to commit to the demanding schedules.

Living with Epilepsy in Silence

Shefali was diagnosed with epilepsy at a young age and faced years of dealing with seizures. In her recent interview, she explained how the condition made it challenging to pursue a full-time career in the entertainment industry, where long hours, stress, and erratic sleep are the norm.

Epilepsy isn’t often discussed openly in Indian households, especially among women in public-facing professions. Shefali’s decision to speak about it brings visibility to a condition that affects many but remains under-addressed due to stigma and misinformation.

Mental Health and Support

Shefali credited her family and later her husband, actor Parag Tyagi, for being her pillars of strength. She emphasized the importance of awareness and emotional support for people with chronic neurological conditions.

Her story is especially relevant to young women in Tier 2 cities in India, where awareness around epilepsy remains low and social pressures often prevent open conversations about mental and neurological health.

Looking Ahead with Confidence

Now in better health and more in control of her condition, Shefali has made selective returns to the screen, including appearances in reality shows and web projects. Her journey is not just one of resilience but also a call for a more informed and compassionate society.

Conclusion

Shefali Jariwala’s revelation about her battle with epilepsy offers a rare and honest glimpse into the unseen struggles behind celebrity lives. Her story reminds us that health — especially mental and neurological — must be spoken about more openly, and that real strength lies not just in fame, but in facing adversity with dignity.