MUMBAI: Using the 'shenai' for which music maestro Ustad Bismillah Khan was renowned for , Oscar winner AR Rahman pays homage to the Bharat Ratna awarded musician, through the songs of  Raanjhanaa produced by Eros International and directed by Aanand L Rai.

Since the film starring Dhanush and Sonam Kapoor is based in the heartland of Benaras , the music composer looked no further that his inspiration- shenai player Ustad Bismillah Khan who hailed from Benaras .Rahman who has previously worked with Ustad Khan on a south film a few years ago ,will now make use of the shenai in all of the film’s songs, reminiscent of the maestro’s music.

Confirming the news says directed Aanand L Rai, “When Rahman sir heard the script intrinsic of Benaras flavour ,thoughts of Ustad Bismillah Khan immediately came to his mind and it was then that he suggested using elements of the 'shenai' in all songs of Raanjhanaa in honour of the music maestro...the songs in the film are an unsaid tribute to Ustad Bismillah Khan and Beneras...Rahman sir holds Bismillah Khan in high regard and has even met his family since he has great respect for his music".

Adds producer Krishika Lulla, " There are several shenai elements in the songs of Raanjhanaa and they have come out beautifully...you can only expect the best from Rahman".

With music composed by A.R Rahman , Eros International’s Raanjhanaa directed by Aanand L Rai, starring Dhanush , Sonam Kapoor and Abhay Deol is scheduled to release 21st June 2013.