Author

Saloanee Labh

Date of Award

2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelors

Department

Natural Sciences

First Advisor

Roy, Tania

Area of Concentration

Liberal Arts

Abstract

This thesis presents SEVA, a prototype mobile app designed to enhance the visibility and economic opportunities of Indian artisans by facilitating the sale of their products to a diverse audience in the United States. The Sanskrit word "seva" translates to "selfless service" or "voluntary work" in English. It embodies the concept of serving others without expecting anything in return, often rooted in spiritual or cultural practices aimed at fostering compassion, community, and personal growth. SEVA is designed to appeal to American audiences by featuring comprehensive artisan profiles that provide contact information, artwork portfolios, and details about their specific art styles. Key functionalities of SEVA include a “Contact the vendor” feature, a search bar, a “Contact us” section for user feedback and issue reporting, a shopping cart for purchase management, and a secure payment page. By integrating these features, SEVA not only simplifies the process of discovering and purchasing unique, culturally significant art pieces but also supports the livelihoods of traditional artists through increased exposure and sales opportunities. This thesis explores SEVA's design, development, and potential impact as a platform for bridging cultural gaps by empowering Indian artisans in the global market.

Available for download on Tuesday, June 02, 2026

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