Shalini Chaddha

International Amusement Limited (APPU GHAR)

In early '80s, the then Prime Minister of India, Ms. Indira Gandhi was scouting for entrepreneurs to create India's first amusement park, where the children of the country could engage within a socio-cultural environment. She handpicked Sweden-based NRI, Mr. Gian Vijeshwar, for the task. Her dream was soon realized, as on 15th September, 1984, International Amusement Limited (IAL) was incorporated with the primary objective to conceptualize and set up India's first amusement park – "Appu Ghar". Inaugurated on 19th November, 1984, "Appu Ghar" embarked on a historic journey to take children and adults alike on its zooming roller coaster, interactive shows, and several other entertaining fanfares. Spread over 18 acres of land, it housed 20 rides and activities to celebrate the tender beauty of fun, laughter, and rejoicing. The destination soon became synonymous with celebration of good times and still holds a special place in hearts of children of 80's & 90's with nostalgic memories. By early 90's Appu Ghar was "The" tourist destination in Delhi, and to further foster family gathering during summer vacations, planning for a water based amusement park was envisaged. After 4 long years of planning in the pipeline, the summer of 1998, saw Appu Ghar start its next chapter with the addition of its first water park "O.Y.S.T.E.R.S". Consisting of a wave pool, rain dance, lazy river, and multiple thrilling water slides, O.Y.S.T.E.R.S metamorphoses as the hamlet to beat the heat was swift. Appu Ghar received an average of 1.4 million guests annually and successfully operated this park for over two decades by building its reputation not only as pioneers of the industry, but pioneers of innovation, as it sought to provide a complete 360 degree entertainment needs. Adapting the best of what the world has to offer to the domestic audience with a fusion of local themes is what we at Appu Ghar do the best; this is our legacy, and a promise of future.