Nepal has many flautists but no one has completed his Masters in flute-playing as has Jeevan Ale, 37. He completed his Masters from the Prayag Institute of Illahabad, India.
Having devoted more than half of his life to classical music, this resident of Mahottari has finally received accolades for his efforts. Though interested in flutes from an early age, Ale says that he only understood the intensity of its music when he started studying it.

"Even when I played folk tunes on the flute, I did not reach the level of satisfaction that I get when I play classical tunes," says Ale. Last year, he was more involved in the academic side of music rather than the practical. He taught at Kathmandu University and also gave private tuitions.

Says Ale to his students: "Do not come to me with high expectations." And for his own peace of mind, he seems to follow the same philosophy. Ale is always inspiring people to study and practice music, adding, "Very few people have the inherent talent given by God but studying music gives an in-depth understanding to it."

Ale lost his right leg in an accident while overseeing lumber in Nawalparasi. Though he had only broken his leg in the accident, the carelessness of doctors in Bharatpur hospital resulted in gangrene and later he had to have it amputated. Ale did not let this stop him and with Fr Gafne's help, he went to Jaipur in India to get an artificial leg fitted. This incident only spurred him on to explore the intricacies of music and become a better flautist. To make sure that he wasn't distracted from his love for music, Ale has remained a bachelor. When asked if he ever plans to marry, Ale laughs and says, "I haven't written it off completely but it seems so far away that I don't think I will."