THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Haryali, Maharaja, Quilon... these are the biryanis that made Najiya of Srikariyam Naj Mahal a rich entrepreneur. She started preparing parcel biryani at home five years ago.

29-year-old Najiya, the owner of Yummy Spot, shared her biryani story with Kerala Kaumudi. Najiya got married at the age of 20 while doing CA course and became a mother at the age of 24. Banana powder prepared for her baby is what changed Najiya's life. When she gave some of it to her neighbours, they all said it was super delicious. With that, Banana powder was sold in jars to acquaintances, and Pothichoru sales was also started. It was on this occasion that COVID-19 spread all over the country. Along with Pothichoru, biryani was also served.

Thiruvananthapuram natives generally want more spices and masala. That's how things proceeded from normal biryani to multiple varieties of biriyanis. Biryani was prepared under different names according to the taste of masala mix and everything was a hit. The venture was started without a single rupee of capital. Initially, chicken biryani was priced at Rs 160. Now it starts at Rs 180. Mutton biryani is priced from Rs 285. There is also beef biryani for Rs 200.

The taste that changed her fate

Najiya's father, Najib, supported the family by selling duty-free goods, but the surplus was only a huge debt. Najiya was living in a rented house in Sreekaryam when she started her biryani business. Today, she has her own house named Naj Mahal at Sreekaryam. Five employees in the kitchen alone and 14 people for delivery duty. The Biryani sale is from 11 am to 2 pm. She got her sister married as well. Her Husband Irshad is an employee of Technopark. Son is a UKG student, Ihan.

Delivery to VS's house

Najiya's Biryani is available at most places in Thiruvananthapuram. She got more than 15000 contacts on WhatsApp. Most people order by phone and Swiggy. Biryani was delivered to VS Achuthanandan's house also.

I was able to stand on my own feet and provide employment to a few people. If you are sincere, anything will be successful

- Najiya