Kannada Language programming on DISH network

Dear Sir/Madam,

This is a petition signed by Indian-Americans who would like to request
Dish Network to add Kannada language programming to your International
Channel lineup.

Kannada is spoken by more than 50 million people in India and World.
Kannadigas, the people who speak Kannada ,use Kannada extensively
in their day-to-day life--be it as the medium of
instruction/communication or part of education and entertainment.

Here are some facts about Kannada Language:

- Kannada is the official language of State of Karnataka, one of the
4 states of Southern India.
- Being one of the oldest languages in India, Kannada has a very rich
culture and heritage. Earliest literary work in Kannada traces back
to 5th century A.D.
- Kannada has won the most number of "Jnanapeeta" awards (the most
prestigous award presented to a best literary work every year
among languages of India by Goverment of India).
- There are about 10 major Kannada News Dailies published from all
over India.
- In addition to numerous weeklies, there are 5 main Kannada
cable/TV channels like Udaya TV, ETV-Kannada, Chandana TV and so on,
broadcasting various programs about language, art, culture,
movies, sports, entertainment, etc.

Here are some facts about Kanndigas living in USA:

- 16\% of Indians living in USA are Kannada speaking.
- Entertainment is big part of Kannada people, specially watching
Kannada movies and television shows via video rentals.
- Kannada video rentals contribute significant revenues to southern
Indian language rentals.
- There are about 30 registered Kannada Cultural Associations in USA.
(http://www.ourkarnataka.com/koota.htm). These associations help
in coordinating the activities of all Kannadigas for promotion
and preservation of Kannada language and culture in North America
in addition to organizing regular celebrations of festivals and
special occasions.
- In addition to serving Kannada Community, the Kannada Associations
also serve local communities by donating money and time.

It has been a long time wish for all these Kannada people living here
to watch their favorite Kannada programs here in USA. In addition to
providing entertainment, these TV channels also stand a way to learn
about Kannada language and culture, especially for all the children
of the Kannada people who are born here.

Through this petition, we, Kannadigas living in USA would like to urge
Dish Network to carry the Kannada cable/TV channels as part of your
great International lineup. This would not only make a large customer base
happy but also also give Dish Network an opportunity to expand its
viewership base and contribute to your gross revenue.