New Delhi: Bollywood actress Soha Ali Khan's "new appeal" and "mature" looks helped her bag "Tum Mile", says Kunal Deshmukh.

"I needed someone like Soha who has the looks that still have a new appeal despite being in the film industry, but could also bring in some maturity to her character. I did not need a newcomer and hence it was my idea to cast her for 'Tum Mile'," Deshmukh told IANS in a telephonic interview from Mumbai.

"In fact, it was for this reason that I cast her opposite Emraan (Hashmi) and it has turned out to be a brilliant casting. She's done her job very well and I am so happy to have roped her in the project," he added.

"Tum Mile" is a romantic movie about a couple stuck in the July 26, 2005, Mumbai deluge.

Co-produced by Sony Music and Vishesh Films, "Tum Mile" is Deshmukh's second directorial venture after "Jannat".

"We needed to recreate the deluge and had to shoot in water for over 12 hours a day for 'Tum Mile', but rather than throwing tantrums, Soha showed exemplary levels of energy on the sets," said Deshmukh.

"Soha was like GI Joe (military-themed action figure). She didn't get tired at all and never stopped. She kept on working. She is one of those who would never give up," he added.

Deskhmukh feels that Soha, who has appeared in films like "Rang De Basanti", "Mumbai Meri Jaan" and "Ahista Ahista", is yet to get her due in the Hindi film industry.

"She has been very good in her career so far and is getting better. She is an extremely talented actress. Unfortunately, she hasn't got a great role yet to show her skills but eventually she will," he said.

"Tum Mile" is tentatively slated for release on July 24.

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