CPM dist conference turns Vanchi Square to cultural hub

Kochi: The CPM's upcoming party district conference in Kochi is set to turn Vanchi Square, known as the city's own Jantar Mantar, into a cultural centre for a week. Vanchi Square, which is a well-known venue for strikes and protests in the city, will host the three-day conference set to begin on Saturday.On Monday, the movie ‘Battleship Potemkin' (1925) by legendary director Sergei Eisenstein was screened at Vanchi Square. Earlier, a kadhaprasangam competition took place at the venue at 5.30pm.Among other events organised on Monday, the noted play ‘Ningalenne Communistakki' by KPAC was staged at Edappally. A chess championship also took place at Gangothri Hall."As a prelude to the event, we are organising a series of programmes in various spheres like culture and sports. Seminars on various topics are also being conducted," CPM district secretary CN Mohanan said."A big crowd turned up to watch Eisenstein's ‘Battleship Potemkin'," Mohanan added. On Tueday, a poets' meet (kaviyarangu) will be held at Vanchi Square. Various dance forms, literary competitions, and more will be held till Friday.