DIRECTV Expands International Programming Platform to Include AASTHA TV Channel
DIRECTV has expanded its South Asian programming lineup with the launch of AASTHA Broadcasting Network, India's most prominent spiritual network. AASTHA Television Channel is now available on DIRECTV channel 2005 on an a la carte basis for $14.99 per month.
The multi-year agreement with AASTHA brings to viewers in the United States the top-rated programs that have made AASTHA India's No. 1 spiritual network and preferred network to Asian Indians in Asia, Africa, Australia and Europe. The AASTHA lineup features spiritual discourses, socio-spiritual-cultural ceremonies and events, meditation techniques and devotional music. It charts the holy places of pilgrimage, elucidates on traditional festivals and focuses on Indian vedic sciences like ayurveda, yoga, astrology, crystal therapy and aroma therapy.
AASTHA broadcasts programming in Hindi, Gujarati and English. In 2005, the channel will air locally originated programming as well.
DIRECTV has developed two new base programming packages exclusively for customers who subscribe to the new international services -- BASIC ($9.99 per month) and PREFERRED CHOICE ($29.99 per month). The BASIC package offers up to 50 channels including local channels (where available), music and shopping channels. In addition to those channels offered in the BASIC package, the PREFERRED CHOICE package includes a variety of relevant English-language channels such as ESPN, CNN, The History Channel, Food Network, TNT, MTV and the Fox Movie Channel.
All new international programming on DIRECTV will be broadcast from the 95-degree West Longitude (WL) orbital slot, requiring customers to use a new 36-inch dish capable of receiving programming from 95 degrees WL, as well as DIRECTV's primary orbital slot at 101 degrees WL. In some markets, customers who subscribe to a local channels package will require a second smaller dish.
To order or inquire about residential pricing for these channels, consumers can call 800-378-4179. For commercial pricing, contact 888-200-4388.
Source: press release
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