A channel that presents the wealth of Indian art forms, features discourses on Hindu literature and scriptures, and interesting discussions and debates on current issues

History, the factual entertainment channel from the JV between AETN and TV18, will be launched in India on 9 October. Also planned are two more channel launches next year - Bio and Crime And Investigation.

In order to have a broader appeal, History channel will be available in six languages

Star Network's Kannada offering, Suvarna TV, will start airing a new daily soap 'Anna Thangi' (Brother-Sister) on the brother-sister bonding theme from October 3 onwards.

The show will run Monday to Friday at the 6.30 pm slot.

Suvarna claims many firsts with Anna Thangi; this is the first Kannada soap centered purely on the brother-sister relationship; yesteryear Sandalwood actor Shashikumar makes his television debut with Anna Thangi; noted film maker Mahesh Babu with film hits such as Akash, Arasu and Merevenege under his belts also makes his television debut as director of the serial, as does film music director Harikrishna; Suvarna has also roped in child actor-director Master Kishan. Kishan has found his way to the Guinness Book of World Records as the youngest director.

Arasu Cable might be a "blow" to DTH operators in Tamil Nadu, if the state-owned multiple system operator (MSO) adds prominent pay channels to its bouquet and still offers connection at Rs 70 a month, said industry sources.

The DTH industry has already been burdened with 'entertainment tax' in the State, making a DTH connection at least twice as expensive as cable connection. "This (Arasu) will only hamper the digital penetration in the State," said a highly placed source in the industry.

DTH operators pay around 30 per cent of the revenue to the Government by way of licence fee and taxes, and 50 per cent to broadcasters. For example, if a subscriber pays Rs 135 a month, the DTH operator pays around Rs 40 to the Government by way of taxes and a little over Rs 65 to broadcasters. That leaves only Rs 30 with the operator.