Salaam TV
Salaam TV is an independent satellite television channel committed to providing Shia Islamic programming. Salaam TV was established in early 2005 by Hajj Sheikh Mohammad Hedayati. The channel's launch date intentionally coincided with the Eid of Ghadeer. Salaam TV's producers assert that the channel is not affiliated with any political groups or external organizations, as it aims to provide apolitical Islamic programming. Availability. Salaam TV was originally available through satellite television throughout most of North America (specifically, the United States and Canada). Since its founding, Salaam TV has always been available internationally, as it is viewable  free of charge through the official Salaam TV website. On May 22, 2006, Salaam TV became available via satellite programing in Europe and Iran through Hot Bird. Language. Throughout the first year of Salaam TV's programming, most of the channel's programs were in English and Persian (aside from the Qur'anic recitations, Islamic prayers, and supplications, which are always recited in Arabic). On January 14, 2006, Salaam TV founder Hajj Sheikh Mohammad Hedayati announced that the program would make efforts to increase programming in other languages including Arabic, Urdu, and Azari. Salaam TV's official website is available in  Arabic, English, and Persian. Funding. There have been accusations that Salaam TV receives funding from political organizations and other countries, such as the Islamic Republic of Iran. Salaam TV's founders maintain that the channel's expenses are covered by individual philanthropists who donate money, primarily through telethon events. In 2005, Salaam TV held two telethons during which callers donated money to support the channel's programming. Music. None of Salaam TV's programming include music, as some Muslims maintain that music should not be played, especially in religious environments. Instead, the producers have opted to use sounds from nature , such as bird songs, during the interludes between regular programming. Satellite Information. In Europe & Middle East: