Indian-born Dheeraj Akolka, a talented individual with a unique trajectory, pursued a degree in architecture at Pune University, but instead of practicing his profession, he ventured into the world of film. His journey began with collaborations on Hindi movies, including the critically acclaimed "Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India" (2001),which received a nomination for the best foreign film at the Indian Academy Awards in 2002. He also worked on other notable films like "Devdas" (2002) and "Black" (2005).
Akolka's passion for film led him to further his education, earning a master's degree in screen directing and writing from London University in 2007. Between 2005 and 2010, he produced and directed five shorts in various locations, including England, India, and Scandinavia. His feature film debut, "Liv & Ingmar" (2012),is a magnificent tribute to the Norwegian actress Liv Ullmann and the renowned Swedish filmmaker Ingmar Bergman.
Told with emotion, candor, and wit by Liv Ullmann herself, the film is a precious document and a universal love story, shot on Bergman's personal estate on Faro Island.
