Shi Yongxin, abbot of the Shaolin Temple, attends the Shaolin Cultural Festival in London last year. [Photo/IC]

Related: Abbot defends role in temple promotion

Shaolin's leader has often faced criticism over high profile, business activities

When Abbot Shi Yongxin attended a meeting in early March during the annual session of the National People's Congress, a man came to his desk with two envelopes and asked for his signature on them as a souvenir.

The abbot quickly signed his name, gave the envelopes back and continued with the meeting.