Muslim sect in Ningxia accepts Beijing's authority and is allowed to build a virtual religious state
In the poorest part of the far western region of Ningxia , Muslim leader Hong Yan offers faith to people who have little else in this arid wasteland.
From humble beginnings in his home village, Mr Hong has created a virtual religious state by building mosques, schools and libraries throughout the region. The Muslim religious sect his great grandfather founded now has 1.5 million followers across western China.
In return for the political cover which has allowed his organisation to flourish, Mr Hong toes the government line. He fosters relationships with officials, serves on the Standing Committee of the Ningxia People's Congress and praises state policies.
'Within the scope of state regulations, we have much freedom but there are differences with other countries,' he said. The mainland has about 20 million Muslims, but they must worship at state-approved venues.
Thousands make the pilgrimage every year to the 'Hong Men' sect's compound, whose twin white towers are visible from afar against the yellow earth.