As a part of his mass contact program, Rahul Gandhi, without any notice or information reached Varanasi on Monday by visiting Sant Ravi Das Mandir and offered prayers in the temple. The decision of Rahul Gandhi to visit Ravi Das Mandir is also very strategic and timely. UP Chief Minister Mayawati had skipped to visit Ravi Das Mandir earlier due to ‘security reasons’ and instead offered a golden ‘pallaki’ to the temple. But Rahul Gandhi who also is covered under high security, found no ‘security threat’ to visit Ravi Das Mandir. Rahul Gandhi visited the naxal affected areas of Chakia in Chandoli district. He also visted villages Davak, Shervan and Viksi. Rahul Gandhi then proceeded to Mirzapur and visited villages Madham, Manikpur, Ahraura, Dariyapur and Padri. Congress is hope ful that they can have a improved performance in the upcoming U.P elections under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi.