Chupsi
The chuspi, or coca leaf pouches are very important as well, and every married man wears his pouch folded and tied to his belt. When islanders greet each other, they exchange coca leaves, but these sacred leaves cannot be received by hand: men receive them in their pouch, women receive them in a corner of their shawl, and boys receive them in their hat. Only after exchanging leaves, and starting to chew will they begin a conversation.
© Kieron Nelson 2013" Vanishing Cultures Photography" All rights reserved
