Chennai, March 20 (IANS) Critically acclaimed Tamil period-drama "Paradesi" raked in Rs.4.86 crore in its opening weekend in Tamil Nadu.

"The Rs.40 crore budget film collected approximately Rs.4.86 crore in its opening weekend in Tamil Nadu," trade analyst Trinath told IANS.

Directed by Bala Pazhanisaamy, "Paradesi" is based on the novel "Red Tea". It narrates the sufferings of tea plantation workers of pre-independent India.

The film features Atharva Murali, Vedhika Kumar and Dhansika in the lead roles. It released all over March 15.

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap bought the distribution rights and released the film in north and central India. It was released with English subtitles.

At the recently announced 60th National Awards, "Paradesi" pocketed one award for the best costumes by Poornima Ramaswamy.