Dev Patel - Pinto Is Patel's Soulmate

DEV PATEL has branded his SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE co-star FREIDA PINTO his "soulmate" for helping him come to terms with his newfound celebrity.

The 18-year-old's part in the hit film - his very first movie role - has catapulted him to international fame, garnering him critical acclaim and a number of industry awards and nominations.

And Patel has credited ex-model Pinto with helping him survive the whirlwind media attention.

He says, "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."

But the teen 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."