'English Vinglish' written with Sridevi in mind: R.Balki

"'English Vinglish' is a very special film for me because it marks the comeback of Sridevi, possibly one of the greatest performers. It was written and discussed keeping Sridevi in mind," Balki told us.

Sridevi scorched the silver screen with films like 'Sadma', 'Chandni', 'Chaalbaaz', 'Mr.India' and 'Lamhe'. Her last movie was 'Judaai', released in 1997.

In 'English Vinglish', Sridevi plays a woman who struggles to speak in English.

"She plays a simple woman who struggles with English language. In India, there is a major problem - either you need money, or you need fame or you need to talk in English to be considered a part of the upper class.

"There is a lot of struggle and lot of people in the country who are insecure because they don't know English. The film tackles that," said Balki, an adman-turned-filmmaker, who earlier directed critically acclaimed movies like 'Cheeni Kum' and 'Paa'.

However, his wife Gauri, who has wielded the megaphone for 'English Vinglish', didn't turn to him for any filmmaking tips.

"The last person she will take tips would be from me. My wife is very independent. I would rather take tips from her. She is very independent minded, she has her own sensibility and it works for her," he said.