Washington, Jan 19: `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. (ANI)