Persis Khambatta Indian model, actress and writer Date of Birth: 02.10.1948 Country: India

Biography of Persis Khambatta

Persis Khambatta was an Indian model, actress, and writer. She was born on October 2, 1948, in Bombay, India. Khambatta began her professional career at the age of 13 and quickly gained popularity as a model due to her striking appearance and perfect proportions. In 1965, at the age of 15, she won the title of "Miss India" and went on to participate in the "Miss Universe" pageant.

Despite her success in the pageant world, Khambatta struggled to break into the Indian entertainment industry due to her westernized outlook on life. As a result, she decided to pursue a career in the United States. In 1975, she landed her first significant role in the films "Conduct Unbecoming" and "The Wilby Conspiracy." However, it was her portrayal of Lieutenant Ilia in the legendary film "Star Trek" in 1979 that brought her widespread recognition and acclaim.

Following her breakthrough role, Khambatta took on minor roles in films such as "Nighthawks," "Megaforce," and "Warrior of the Lost World." In 1979, she became the first Indian actress to be nominated for an Oscar. However, despite her success in Hollywood, Khambatta returned to India in 1985 to try her luck in Bollywood. Her only Indian film, "Shingora," did not achieve the expected success, leading Khambatta to return to Hollywood.

In 1980, Khambatta was involved in a car accident that left her with serious injuries, including a large scar on her head. Undeterred, she ventured into writing and released a book titled "Pride of India" in 1997, with the proceeds going to charitable causes. Khambatta's final acting role was a small cameo in the film "Lois and Clark: The New Adventures of Superman."

In August 1998, Persis Khambatta was admitted to a hospital in South Mumbai complaining of severe chest pain. Unfortunately, she passed away a few days later from a heart attack. At the time of her death, Khambatta was only 49 years old.