China / Tibet: A Tibetan gives a traditional greeting by sticking his tongue out. Unknown photographer, early 20th century

In Tibet sticking the tongue out is considered a polite way of showing respect. The caption on this photograph explains:

'Sticking the tongue out as a Tibetan greeting began when Buddhists wanted people to know that they were not Bon-Po (pre-Buddhist religion) as they were supposed to have black tongues. Pink tongues were stuck out as proof of being Buddhist. The further the tongue out, the greater respect'.

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