Dev Patel calls co-star Freida Pinto his 'soulmate'

Slumdog Millionaire star Dev Patel has called co-star Freida Pinto his soulmate for helping him cope with the instant stardom.

The 18-year-old, who played the role of Jamal in the rags-to-riches tale, rose to international stardom with his debut film along with critical acclaim and a number of industry awards and nominations.

He credits co-star and ex-model Pinto for helping him deal with the instant media attention.

"We're soulmates because we're both in this surreal situation. She is very beautiful... I haven't got a girlfriend but Freida, my co-star, is gorgeous," Contactmusic quoted him as saying.

Patel is keen to deny speculation the pair has sparked an off-screen relationship

 "There's no romance. I've never had a girlfriend. I've always been focused on acting. But for now I'm having the time of my life," he added.