Koel Mullick in Siliguri on Wednesday. A Telegraph picture

Siliguri, Oct. 3: Love conquers all in Tollywood director Haranath Chakraborty’s next film Nawab Nandini, based on the tried and tested rich-girl-meets-poor-boy story and shot in north Bengal.

“Even 50 years later, love will continue to be the dominant theme in films,” the director said. “Love is the most overpowering emotion that transcends the boundaries of class, caste and community, which is why films on this theme, in all its variations, will continue to be made.”

In a departure from city-centric films, the story of Nawab Nandini is based in the tea gardens of north Bengal. “It is a story about a planter’s daughter,” Chakraborty said.

The rich girl is played by Koel Mullick. Newcomer Hiran dons the role of Nawab, Koel’s love interest in the film.

“The film has a lot of dreams and masala and I am hopeful that the audience will like it,” said Koel, the daughter of veteran Bengali actor Ranjit Mullick.

“I have always admired her (Koel),” said Hiran, who has so far worked only in theatre. “I feel lucky to have been able to start my screen career with her.”

The crew began shooting in north Bengal from September 24. “We have shot in different areas like Rohini, Sukna, Simulbarie and Garidhura,” Chakraborty said. The shooting will go on till October 11. The film is slated for release early next year.

“Siliguri and north Bengal are like a second home to us,” the director said. “Whenever we think of outdoor location, this region is the first place that comes to mind.”