>> The figures speak for themselves: the bank’s customer base currently stands at 25 million; the branch network stands at 2,544, (with an addition of 819 branches in the last two years.) And it has grown at a very impressive rate of 35% CAGR since 2001. But these are not the only reasons why HDFC Bank’s enigmatic managing director Aditya Puri since 1994 has acquired something of a cult following in the circles that matter. His unique approach to work life and personal choices certainly adds to the mystique. Apparently, not only does the reclusive biz leader not carry a mobile but also eschews wearing a watch and is said to avoid carrying money on his person. When asked about these quirks apparently Puri has impressed people with his logical reasoning.u00a0“We lived for more than half our lives without mobiles,” he is reported to have said. “As for a watch, why should I be a slave to time? My office reminds me of all-important appointments.” And er, money? “Why do I need to carry any?” he is reported to have said to a friend. “On the occasion when I had to take a taxi to my hotel from the airport — I asked the hotel to pay and returned it later!” Nothing becomes a legend more than a few idiosyncrasies!