Ripley to set up base in Bangalore

Bangalore (UNI): Ripley Entertainment Inc (REI), which runs popular amusement parks in ten countries, has its largest fan base in India, though it is yet to set up shop in the country. Informing this at an interaction with reporters here, REI President Robert Masterson said the company had become popular among Indians through its show on AXN channel ''Ripley's Believe It Or Not'' and received maximum number of mails and faxes from India.

He said ''Ripley fans can now be happy as the company is setting up its amusement park in the Rs 500-crore Innovative film city coming up near Bidadi about 40 km from here.'' Later, speaking at the Special Delegates Meet of the Film City, he said, ''We have set up amusement parks in ten countries, but India remains our favourite place as we have the biggest fan base here. We were looking for a suitable franchise and we ultimately got the ideal location near Bangalore. Our amusement park, now being constructed at a fast pace, will be ready by April 2007.'' REI fans can now enjoy their favourite 'Believe It Or Not' programme, the storehouse of most incredible sights, sounds and experiences in India.

Apart from 'Believe It Or Not', REI would also offer famous amusements like ''Aquarium of the Smokies,'' which proclaims 'no acquarium gets you closer', The Moving Theatre, Davy Crockett Mini Golf, Haunted Adventure, Old McDonalds Farm, Louis Tussaud's, Sight Seeing Trains and the unforgettable Guinness World Records.