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. 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. 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: