In the early 1990s, Islamist militants began imposing their own strict version of Islam, shooting at women who did not cover themselves in a burqa, and flinging acid in their faces. Now, the militants' hold over daily life in the valley has eased, with violence ebbing since India and Pakistan, which both lay claim to the region and rule it in parts, began a peace process in 2004. A single cinema has reopened, traditional theatre and music are being revived and young Kashmiri women are abandoning their veils and considering careers like aviation.

Shahida Bazaz, an instructor, said youngsters like Ayub were keen to make up for lost time and hold out hope for better times. "The present generation realises that we must go forward, we must go out of this valley, and see for ourselves what opportunities are available and take them with both hands."