Shafaqna India: On a tranquil October day in 2002, a young soldier’s aspirations were abruptly shattered in the rugged terrain of Jammu and Kashmir’s Chowkibal.
An unexpected explosion during an anti-terrorist operation ended Havildar Hokato Hotozhe Sema’s dream of joining the Special Forces. The landmine blast resulted in the amputation of his left leg below the knee, causing profound physical pain and emotional trauma.
While many believed his world had collapsed, it marked the start of an extraordinary journey of resilience and determination. Sema embarked on a transformative path of recovery and reinvention at the Army Paralympic Node, BEG Centre in Pune.
Fast forward twenty-two years, and the 40-year-old Indian shot-putter achieved a career-best throw of 14.65 meters at the Paralympics, securing a bronze medal in the men’s F57 category and contributing to India’s total of 27 medals (six gold, nine silver, and twelve bronze).
Sema’s rise in para-athletics has been nothing short of inspirational. Known for his sheer willpower, he distinguished himself in the F57 category, which includes athletes with limb deficiencies and impaired muscle power. Encouraged by senior army officials at the Pune-based Artificial Limb Centre, he took up shot put at age 32 in 2016.
His journey saw him compete in the National Para Athletics Championships in Jaipur, win a silver at the Morocco Grand Prix in 2022, and earn a bronze medal at the Asian Para Games in Hangzhou. Though he narrowly missed a medal at the 2024 World Championships, finishing fourth, his resolve remained unshaken.
The pivotal moment came at his Paralympics debut, where he faced a highly competitive field. In his six throws, each demonstrated his grit and physical strength. He surpassed the 14-meter mark on his second throw and set a personal best with a fourth attempt of 14.49 meters, securing the bronze.
Iran’s Yasin Khosravi, a two-time para world champion, took gold with a Paralympic record of 15.96 meters, while Brazil’s Thiago Dos Santos won silver with 15.06 meters.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Sema’s victory as a ‘proud moment’ for the nation, praising his incredible strength and determination.
Sema’s journey has been supported by the Khelo India initiative, with the National Centre of Excellence scheme covering his training, boarding, and lodging.