Mumbai, Aug 14 (IANS): Gauri Shinde, wife of filmmaker R. Balki, who is debuting as a director with "English Vinglish", says the film is inspired by her mother.

"This film is inspired by my mom. Like most people in India struggle with this language, it's just the insensitivity and insecurity that made me do this film," Shinde said.

Asked how she managed to cast Sridevi in her debut film, she said: "While writing the script, I did not think of anyone. When Balki met Boney and Sridevi, they asked him what was he doing at that time. Balki mentioned about me writing a script. Sridevi liked the subject and I narrated the script to her and it just happened."

Like Balki, who is known to portray all women characters in his films in a very strong light, even Shinde has managed to do the same with "English Vinglish".

"I am a woman and I will show all my women as strong characters," she said.

"English Vinglish" is slated for release Oct 5.