Completely. I think I can finally do what I have always wanted to do, and that is to be an actor, and it's a dram come true. So it has definitely changed my life in every way possible.

What is it about the film that meant the most to you?

I have to tell you this. When I was in the US, this lady came up to me and she said, 'My friend is really depressed, I am taking her to watch Slumdog Millionaire because I am sure it will uplift her soul.' And I had tears in my eyes, and no one has really said something like that. So I guess that would be the one compliment.

What is the most surreal thing that has happened so far in this journey?

Meeting all these A-list actors and actresses, because these are people you idolize all your life. I met Thandi Newton by the way, I went up to her and told her what an inspiration she has been.

Give us three directors who you'd kill to work with.

One of them is actually not even alive. I have already worked with Danny Boyle, so I can't pick his name. There are so many. Alegandro Inaritu, I love his style of filming, so he'd definitely be one. I loved Bank Job and so I think Roger Donaldson. I loved the film. I loved the way it was shot as well. Someday with Steven Spielberg too, for the simple reason that I think his name is inescapable in Hollywood. He's an ambitious director and has done so much, so extensively, whether it's the Jurassic Park films or Munich. He's done almost every genre and I'd love to work with him.

Courtsey: Maxim magazine