The rupee appreciated by 10 paise to 46 a dollar in the early trade today in line with other Asian currencies and increased capital inflows by foreign funds into equities.

At the Interbank Foreign Exchange (Forex) market, the rupee appreciated by 10 paise to 46 a dollar. The domestic currency had closed 30 paise higher at 46.10/11 in the previous session on Friday. The markets were closed yesterday on account of 'Holi'.

Forex dealers said rupee gained against the US currency in line with other Asian units and dollar selling by banks and exporters.

Besides, fresh capital inflows by foreign funds into equities also supported the Indian rupee, they added.

Meanwhile, the Bombay Stock Exchange benchmark Sensex rose by 243.55 points, or 1.47 per cent to 16,673.10, in the opening trade today.