The Indian reality show Bigg Boss has delivered some of the most memorable moments in TV history, but it now finds itself at the center of a somber narrative. The recent passing of actress Shefali Jariwala—known for her role in Bigg Boss 13 and the iconic Kaanta Laga remix—has stirred a haunting question online: Is there a “curse” tied to the show?
Jariwala died at age 42 of a cardiac arrest, and her sudden death was mourned by thousands. Among them, fellow contestant Himanshi Khurana took to social media to express both sorrow and a chilling thought: “Bigg Boss, that place is cursed I think.”
Whether superstition or coincidence, a number of former contestants have met tragic ends in recent years. Here’s a look at those whose lives were cut short:
Sidharth Shukla
Winner of Bigg Boss 13, Shukla died in 2021 from a massive heart attack at just 40. His death stunned millions of fans.
Pratyusha Banerjee
At only 24, this Bigg Boss 7 contestant and beloved TV actress died by suicide in 2016, allegedly due to severe personal distress.
Swami Om
Famous for his polarizing behavior in Bigg Boss 10, he passed away in 2021 after battling post-COVID complications.
Sonali Phogat
The Bigg Boss 14 participant, also a political figure, died at age 42 from a heart attack while on a visit to Goa in 2023.
Somadas Chathannoor
This Bigg Boss Malayalam participant and singer succumbed to COVID-19 complications in 2021.
Jayashree Ramaiah
The Kannada actress and former Bigg Boss Kannada contestant took her life in 2020. She had openly discussed mental health struggles.
Each of these incidents may be unrelated, but together they paint a troubling picture of the toll fame and public scrutiny can take. Whether it’s called a curse or simply an unfortunate pattern, the tragedies surrounding Bigg Boss alumni highlight deeper conversations around mental health, the pressures of the entertainment industry, and the silent battles many face behind the limelight.
