The death of Shefali Jariwala, known for her iconic "Kaanta Laga" music video and Bigg Boss 13 appearance, has indeed reignited discussions about the complex relationship between celebrities and the media. The metaphor of the media as a "blood-thirsty tiger" captures the dynamic well—celebrities often rely on media for fame and exposure when things are going well, but the same media can turn invasive or exploitative during personal tragedies or vulnerabilities.
The Media-Celebrity Equation
Celebrities like Jariwala actively engage with media to build their public image. She often shared her personal life on social media, including her relationship with her husband Parag Tyagi, and made appearances on popular shows like The Kapil Sharma Show and Nach Baliye. This mutual relationship benefits both parties: celebrities gain visibility, while media outlets profit from clicks, views, and TRPs. However, when tragedy strikes, the media's relentless pursuit of 'bad news' can cross ethical boundaries. In Jariwala's case, reports highlight how paparazzi and news channels were criticized for intrusive coverage, such as filming her funeral and shoving microphones in her grieving husband's face.
Public's Right to Know vs. Media Ethics
The argument that "people have a right to know" is often used to justify sensational coverage. Jariwala’s death, initially reported as a cardiac arrest on June 27, 2025, sparked widespread public interest due to her fame. The public's right to know about a celebrity's passing is not just undeniable, but a significant part of the media-celebrity equation. However, the lack of official confirmation on her cause of death and the media's focus on speculative details—like interviewing her cook or security guard—raise questions about whether such reporting serves the public or merely exploits grief for profit. Posts on X reflect public outrage, with users calling out media for "vulturism" and a "collapse of basic human decency" by prioritizing clickbait over dignity.
Is the Media in the Morality Business?
Media is "not in the morality business" holds weight in the current landscape. Media outlets operate as businesses driven by revenue, where sensationalism often trumps sensitivity. The coverage of Jariwala’s funeral, described as chaotic with fans falling and paparazzi being schooled by celebrities, underscores this profit-driven approach. Yet, there’s a counterargument: media has a responsibility to inform responsibly, especially during sensitive moments. The backlash against certain outlets for "cringey thumbnails" and milking tragedy for TRPs is a powerful testament to the public's demand for ethical journalism, showing that they have the power to influence media practices and uphold moral standards.
Balancing Act
While the public may have a right to know about a celebrity’s passing, it's crucial to remember that the line between informing and exploiting is thin. Jariwala’s case, where her last Instagram post about "living life" went viral post-death, shows how media amplifies personal moments for mass consumption. Ethical journalism would prioritize respect for the deceased and their family over sensational headlines or invasive visuals, like those of a heartbroken Parag Tyagi. Celebrities, too, could set boundaries during their careers to manage media expectations, though this is challenging in an industry reliant on publicity. Striking a balance between informing and respecting privacy is not just a challenge, but a necessity for ethical journalism and the well-being of all involved.
Conclusion
The media-celebrity equation is inherently transactional, thriving on mutual benefit until tragedy exposes its predatory side. While the public’s curiosity fuels demand, media outlets must navigate the fine line between informing and exploiting. The outrage on X and critical reports suggest that many believe the media should uphold some moral standards, even if it’s "not in the morality business." Ultimately, respecting the dignity of individuals like Shefali Jariwala and their loved ones should take precedence over chasing views
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