The 33-year-old actor, who made a successful debut with "Johnny Gaddaar" in 2007, had a string of flops at the box-office in the recent past, including "David", "3G" and "Shortcut Romeo".
Neil is thrilled about working for "Prem Ratan Dhan Payo", which reunites Salman with filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya of Rajshri Productions.
"This film is a big boost to my career. I couldn't have asked for more. It is going to be one of the biggest films in India. When I read the script, I was pleasantly surprised because this is not a setting what people would expect from a Sooraj Barjatya film but at the same time he has maintained the essence of his movies so beautifully," Neil told PTI.
"It is a very complex character. It is nicely layered. I play Ajay Singh, Salman's step brother in the film. He is a rebel with a cause.
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"There are times when people are misunderstood and because of that they invite a lot of flak and negative attention. I play a character like that," he said.
On his experience of working with Salman, Neil said it is a dream sharing screen space with the "Dabangg" star.
"He is concerned about everybody on the sets. It does not matter to him how big or a small a person is. That shows his stature. His presence is intimidating but when you know him he is like a baby," Neil said.
The "New York" actor revealed he is undergoing physical training for an upcoming action sequence in the movie.
Neil, who was in capital to walk for designer Rajesh Pratap Singh for Woolmark's fashion show, said it is a good time for him as he is busy shuffling between movie shoots and other activities.
"It is a hectic but good time for me. I have been taking up shows, performing all over India. I also have a show in Dubai. Then I am doing two big films, one is 'Prem...' and other one is a surprise. I will announce it later," Neil said.