Mystery still surrounds the reasons for the cancellation of the shows in Shanghai and Beijing in September (15), but insiders claim the keyboard player's note to the exiled Buddhist leader, which has since been deleted, angered Chinese officials and upset anti-Tibet activists, opposed to the Dalai Lama's spiritual leadership.

Many western stars have fallen out of favour in China for showing support to the Dalai Lama, who has been exiled by China since 1959 - singer Bjork was attacked after calling for Tibet's independence during a 2008 show in Shanghai, while Oasis were reportedly forced to cancel shows after Noel Gallagher performed at a Free Tibet concert in New York.

Representatives for Maroon 5 have yet to comment on the concert cancellations.