Very recently Dhanush (of 'Kolavari Di' fame) visited the holy city of Benaras. However it wasn't due to any spiritiual awakening of sorts but for professional reasons as the actor as well as his director (Aanand L Rai) wanted to get familiar with the city. Reason? Benaras is the setting for their film together - 'Raanjhanaa'.

Says Aanand, who made waves with 'Tanu Weds Manu' last year, "Our recent trip was just a short visit as I wanted Dhanush to get a flavour of what he would be doing in 'Raanjhanaa'. It helped me as well to become further confident about how he so easily fits into the kind of setup I have in mind for his character and the film in general. He was very comfortable interacting with the locals there and also spent good time with 'sadhus' at the 'ghats'. For me too it was a homecoming of sorts since I have spent a considerable time up North during my growing up years."

However for 'tourist' Dhanush, there is a lot more in the offering as Aanand plans to take him to Benaras once again in the month of March. He would hope though that by that time his leading lady is finalised as well and joins him for the trip.

Here is presenting the First Look of Dhanush which was captured by Aanand at Benaras.