An Uncertain Future for the 'Stache

There was a time when police in India were given bonuses to grow a bushy mustache, as nothing signified authority and wisdom quite so well. But now, young Indian men are saying goodbye to handlebars and walruses as the country becomes more urban and Westernized.

A new book, Hair India - A Guide to the Bizarre Beards and Magnificent Moustaches of Hindustan, documents India's long tradition of facial hair in case the clean-shaven trend continues. We particularly liked that beards were categorized "according to bristle-design" - when you can call your facial hair "the wing commander" you're definitely onto something.

Though they've lost some favor in India, mustaches still have a place - several, actually - on the web. Mustaches of the Nineteenth Century combines archived photos with old-timey spirit, while a number of shaven Americans decided to grow staches for charity last May. And, of course, the 2009 World Beard and Mustache Championships are only a few months away.

(Photo by lady in the radiator)