London, Nov 6

British filmmaker Danny Boyle says he was surprised to learn his "Slumdog Millionaire" stars Dev Patel and Freida Pinto are dating because he didn't notice any sparks between the pair on the movie set.

The two actors met while filming the Oscar-winning picture, but spent months denying rumours of a real-life romance before finally going public with their relationship this summer.

Boyle, who spent months directing the pair, admits he had no idea they would get together, reports contactmusic.com.

"I was a bit surprised at first, but then those things tend to pass me by... I'm delighted for them, they seem to be real soulmates and I'm sure more than that. I'm very happy for them - it seems lovely," he said.