Kashmiri Girls Take to the Sky for a Future

Decreased violence in India’s Kashmir region is shifting attention to other pursuits. For example, some young women are shedding their veils and flocking to the region’s flight attendant school to make their dreams come true.
Men and women are studying to become flight attendants at the Viinzs Aviation Training Institute.
[Samiya Ayub, Air Hostess Trainee]:
“We only became aware of this new possibility when this institute opened, and we got really excited about joining. Now we have this chance to show the world that we can also become something in life. Just like the British and the Americans who can make a name for themselves, so we also have an opportunity to make a name and show the world that we are capable of something.”
The training covers personal hygiene, make-up, language courses in English and French, and practical training such as ticketing and serving food and beverages.
Indians consider an airline job to be glamorous, and flight attendants can bump into celebrities, jet-set to exotic locations, and attend fancy parties.
Sabiya, one of the aspiring air hostesses, says it will help her become independent.
[Sabiya, Air Hostess Trainee]:
“This profession gives us everything. It will enable us to stand on our feet, we will get good salaries and we will meet good people. I would be able to support my family through this job. What else does one need?”
[Shahida Bazaz, Srinagar Aviation Training Institute]:
Viinzs purposely set up its college in a quiet location away from downtown Srinagar to avoid becoming a target of controversy, especially since their trainees wear Western-style uniforms.
Female trainees must lead a dual life.
The moment they step out of the school’s walls, they must be covered head-to-toe in the traditional burqa.
08/07/09 NDTV.com