With a clear passion for product design and free time on her hands, Mirza came up with the concept of creating multipurpose prayer mats for practicing Muslims in 2017. Inspiration for her unique designs came to her when shopping for a prayer mat to take on vacation. As she was searching, Mirza came across two options, which were the traditional prayer mats and plain mats. Then suddenly, she realized that she could try and make a third option for Muslims like herself.
Enter Niyya. Niyya mats are designed to feel both familiar and modern, a fresh concept targeted towards the younger generations, offering something contemporary yet still based on intention and spirituality, that allowed a younger generation of Muslims to pray on the go and express their identity with pride.
On paper, each mat, which is made with 100% cotton in the United States, can also be used as homeware pieces, style accessories, or travel companions. Unlike traditional prayer mats, they are also made with enough padding between the user and the floor, making them comfortable while still being tasteful.
The word "Niyya" loosely translates as "intention," an Islamic term that Mirza centers her products around. Her intention is to help communities build bridges in the current socio-political climate by commonly using Niyya branded products, while proudly showing off their identities. Each mat is available on Niyya.co, with international shipping available.
