Religious faith and beliefs seem to be guiding the operations of banks too. Recently, public sector lender, UCO Bank set up a 'lockless' branch at Shani Shingnapur in Maharashtra. The place is known to be free of crime owing to the blessings of the temple deity there.

The bank has taken this step despite the Center's constant strive for hi tech security in both public and private sector banks.

The temple of Lord Shani attracts thousands of devotees every day and it is said that since the inception of the temple, there has been no crime in the village. The village is located in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra.

"We took note of the general belief and faith of the people. Ever since the most revered temple came into existence several years ago, the village has not witnessed a single crime. In fact, all houses in the entire village have no doors. We took the risk and started the lockless bank a week ago," a senior bank official said.

Local NCP legislator Shankar Gadakh had asked a set of banks to set up a branch there so as to facilitate the devotees. "We then approached UCO bank, which agreed. It is certainly taking a risk, but in view of the people's belief the bank has set up the branch," a senior NCP leader said.