Sholay's 'Thakur' and Kaanta Laga Girl: Sanjeev Kumar and Shefali Jariwala Shared More Than Just a Surname — Even Their Tragic End

The sudden passing of actress Shefali Jariwala—best known as the Kaanta Laga Girl—has left fans heartbroken. The 42-year-old actress died on 27 June in Mumbai following a cardiac arrest. But in a haunting coincidence, she shares more than just fate with a legendary figure of Indian cinema.

Just like Shefali, Sanjeev Kumar, the iconic actor immortalized as Thakur in Sholay, also died of a heart attack. And in a striking detail, both shared the same surname—Jariwala.

Sanjeev Kumar’s Real Name Was Harihar Jethalal Jariwala

Born in Surat, Gujarat, Sanjeev Kumar was originally named Harihar Jethalal Jariwala. He later changed his name after entering the film industry. Though he appeared in numerous classics, he is best remembered for his unforgettable role in Sholay (1975).

Sanjeev Kumar died at the age of 47 in Mumbai on 6 November 1985, also due to cardiac arrest—just like Shefali, who passed away at 42. Both actors left this world prematurely, in the prime of their lives.

A Gujarat Connection

Interestingly, both stars hailed from Gujarati families. While Sanjeev Kumar was from Surat, Shefali Jariwala was born in Ahmedabad in 1982. Though from different generations and genres, both carved unique identities—he as a masterful actor of cinema, and she as a pop culture icon through music videos and reality TV.

Shefali’s Journey in Entertainment

Shefali rose to fame in 2002 with the superhit remix music video Kaanta Laga, a modern take on the classic song from Samjhauta (1964). Her bold screen presence made her an overnight sensation. She later appeared in reality shows like Nach Baliye with husband Parag Tyagi, and Bigg Boss 13, where she reconnected with audiences.

Despite not doing many films, Shefali retained her place in popular culture—and proudly embraced the title of Kaanta Laga Girl till her last breath.

A Shared Legacy, A Shared Loss

While Sanjeev Kumar’s legacy lives on through his unforgettable characters, and Shefali’s through her iconic image and spirit, their shared surname, Gujarati roots, and tragically similar cause of death bind them in an unexpected, poignant parallel.

Two artists from different eras—connected by fame, surname, and fate.