LONDON: The pair have been photographed cuddling up in Israel and ring shopping in London since the Oscar-winning film was released.
The 24-year-old has now called 19-year-old Patel "a lovely boy", according to The Sun . She added: "The friendship blossommed after the film, it got even stronger. This is all new to us."
Rumours of a relationship began shortly before Slumdog Millionaire swept the board at the Oscars in February. Pinto, and Patel, denied they were an item, but their cover was blown by co-star Anil Kapoor.
"When I meet them, I feel there is something happening," he said, adding that the couple shared "a magical chemistry".
Pinto's ex, Rohan Antao, blamed Patel for their relationship breakdown.
"I don't know if they were having a sexual relationship but if I came face to face with him I would have things to say. Now everywhere I go I see them on billboards. I am devastated," he said.
The couple were seen shopping for a ring in a jewellers in Oxford Street, in central London, on Valentine's Day. Pinto was then photographed nestling into Patel's shoulder during a cosy al fresco lunch date in Israel.
The actress was shooting her latest film, Miral, in the country and Patel had flown out to see her.