'I am single' - Upen Patel

He's excited, sad, philosophical and karmic. 26-year-old actor Upen Patel is a mixed bag of emotions nowadays.

Currently working with Govinda, Manoj Bajpai, and Celina Jaitley in Ganesh Acharya's Money Hai Toh Honey Hai , Upen has had a hectic schedule of over 12 -16 hours each day. He says, "I've been loved so much by my fans and big directors want to cast me. I am lucky." But his love life has been a rocky affair. "I am an emotional man. I think with my heart. When I love, I give myself completely.

And anytime a person breaks away from me, she takes a piece of me with her. My woman knows that I will always love her, for love is too lasting an emotion." Is it model Shamita Singha he is talking about? "Well, about her I wouldn't want to comment anything. But I must affirm that I've been single for over six months now." And what about lovely co-star Tanishaa? "She's a beautiful person and I am fond of her as a co-star. We are both young and friendly, so we vibe well. Isn't that normal?"

But it's not just love that makes Upen happy. Upen was really happy when he got a compliment from Salman Khan. "Salman Khan came up to me and appreciated my physique. I felt so great. He also gave me some gym tips to follow and I was glad." And how's it working with Govinda for the very first time? Upen says, "His dance moves are fluid."

Speaking about acting, Upen says, "Some people are born actors like Shah Rukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan and some learn to become actors. I am not a born actor, I'm learning to get there. The time gone by has been good and the coming year's going to be great. I am enjoying my work. I come from a humble background and my success means a lot to my family and me."

He adds, "My soul mate is flying down to India to be with me. I'm meeting her after four long months now and love her so much." Who's that? "My momma. She's been my best friend and I need her around so she's coming down to be with me. It's my best New Year's gift, you know."