IN MEMORIAM

Persis Khambatta

Beauty School was saddened to learn that Persis Khambatta, Miss India 1965 and star of the very first Star Trek motion picture, died August 18, 1998.

In this photo, we see Persis as the newly crowned Miss India 1965. This picture was taken from Pride of India, a lavish coffee table book she authored last year. The book is both a history and celebration of Miss India. The title of the book refers to Persis herself. In 1982, Persis was introduced to the late prime minister Mrs. Indira Gandhi, who said to her, "Who doesn't know Persis? She is the pride of India."

Thank you, Persis, for charming our lives with your grace, intellect, kindness, and beauty. We are grateful the Universe blessed us with you. From Miss India 1965 to Star Trek to Pride of India, we'll never forget you.

Here is her obituary, from the Associated Press:

Wednesday August 19 1:51 AM EDT

Star Trek Film Actress Dies

BOMBAY, India (AP) - Persis Khambatta, a former Miss India, who was a navigator in the film ''Star Trek - The Motion Picture'' died in Bombay following a massive heart attack, newspapers reported today.

Khambatta, 49, who died Tuesday in a Bombay hospital, had undergone a by-pass operation in 1983.

She began modeling at the age of 13 and went on to win the Miss India beauty crown in 1965, dressed in off-the-rack clothes she bought in London at the last minute.

Khambatta starred in a few Hindi language films in India and then went to feature in Hollywood productions, such as ''The Wilby Conspiracy,'' ''Conduct Unbecoming'' and ''Night Hawks.'' Her biggest break as an actress was playing Lt. Aliea in the ''Star Trek'' movie.

Her funeral will be held today in Bombay, her family said.

She is survived by her mother and a brother.

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