Mumbai, Feb 22 (IANS): Parineeti Chopra is thrilled to be directed by a stalwart filmmaker like Sooraj Barjatya for her next 'Uunchai'. On the 58th birthday of the director, the actress thanks him for enriching her as a performer on screen.

Parineeti says, "Sooraj sir is the gentlest and the most amazing human being that I have ever met. He is so simple, so wise and so intelligent as a creative force, that someone like me, who is a complete director's actor, can gain tremendously and sharpen one's skill-set.

"Working with Sooraj ji on the sets of 'Uunchai' is like me going back to school because there is so much learning and unlearning at the same time that you feel creatively satiated after a shoot day."

She adds that he is enriching her as an artiste and she can only be grateful to him for choosing her to be a part of his vision.

"He deserves all the happiness and love on his birthday because through his films, he has spread so much love and joy to people. He has taught everyone so many values that are rooted in our Indian culture for generations."

"We are blessed to have had someone like Sooraj sir shaping Hindi cinema. His contribution is simply timeless."

In Sooraj's 'Uunchai', Parineeti will be acting with megastar Amitabh Bachchan and brilliant acting icons like Anupam Kher and Boman Irani.

In 2022, Parineeti will be seen in Sandeep Reddy Vanga's 'Animal' opposite Ranbir Kapoor.