The Thaicom-3 satellite based digital channel is already available in Ahmedabad, Delhi, Mumbai and in states like Orissa and Bihar. However, a few independent cable operators in Howrah district of West Bengal are showing it.

According to Mr Chopra, both the multi-system-operators in Calcutta, Siti Cables which is the cable and convergence arm of Zee Telefilms, and RPG Netcom of RP Goenka have expressed their inability to accommodate the channel at present. "Still, we are hoping that it will be beamed shortly," Mr Chopra added.

"Indians are quite religious by nature, but when it comes to our customs, we tend to follow them in accordance with our convenience," Mr Chopra said and added, "Sanskar will update viewers on this and festivals, customs and culture."

The 24-hour channel will be telecast in Hindi, English and all regional languages. Sanskar, which is available in 154 countries, features programmes on Indian culture and traditions, pooja and kirtans, bhajans, aartis and kathas by renowned artistes. It also covers all festivals, religious discourses, yoga, meditation, children's education, mytholoigical serials and films.