This article from China Daily highlights “art monk” Shi Daoxin (left).

What do you think about this shades-and-Blackberry wearing Buddhist monastic? (Just a friendly note to Shi Daoxin: That’s not the best look for anybody, monk or not.)

Some highlights:

Buddhist monk Shi Daoxin’s daily routine is not about chanting scriptures, meditating or temple ceremonies – rather, he spends his time listening to different categories of music, updating his blog, exchanging messages and emails with fans, and granting interviews in addition to working on his music. [...]

On the one hand, he has a huge crowd of growing fans, praising and downloading his songs; and on the other, a substantial number of people who question the true motivation of a monk active in the secular entertainment world.

Most of his previous songs are what he describes as the “modern and popular version of traditional Buddhist chanting”, but now, he is considering a switch in style.

He said he will try something less religious, and easier-to-understand lyrics. He does not think this is a departure from Buddhism; instead, it is a better way to “call forth the busy urban dwellers’ reminiscences of childhood and allay their anxiety and restlessness”.

But skepticism abounds, especially online. Many accuse him of chasing personal fame in the guise of Buddhism; some even dismiss him as a disgrace to the religion.