Paris Paralympics: Havildar Hokato Hotozhe Sema’s Journey From Army In J&K To Bronze Medalist

Indian para-athlete Hokato Hotozhe Sema secured a bronze medal in the men’s shot put F57 final on September 7 at the 2024 Paris Paralympics. This achievement contributes to India’s record-setting performance at the Games, with a total of 27 medals (six gold, nine silver, and 12 bronze).

This surpasses the previous best of 20 medals from the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics. Beyond the accolades, 40-year-old Hokato Hotozhe Sema’s journey is a testament to resilience and determination. According to reports, Sema, once a soldier in the Indian Army stationed in Chowkibal, Jammu and Kashmir, aspired to join the Special Forces.

However, in October 2022, a landmine explosion during an anti-terrorist operation resulted in the loss of his left leg below the knee, causing him immense physical pain and mental trauma. “I joined the Army in 2000 and was injured in a landmine blast in 2002, which led to the amputation of my leg below the knee,” Sema shared.

Despite this setback, Sema turned adversity into opportunity, beginning his journey in para-sports in 2016 and training at the Army Paralympic Node in Pune. After winning a medal at the 2023 Asian Para Games, his focus shifted to the Paralympics, where he achieved his goal.

Sema earned his bronze medal with a career-best throw of 14.65 meters in the men’s F57 shot put at the 2024 Paris Paralympics. Excelling in this category, which includes athletes with limb deficiencies and reduced muscle power, he was encouraged by senior Army officials at the Pune-based Artificial Limb Centre to pursue shot put.

Sema embraced the sport in 2016 at age 32, quickly making a name for himself. In 2016, Sema began his journey in para athletics and competed in the National Para Athletics Championships in Jaipur. By 2022, he secured back-to-back medals—silver at the Morocco Grand Prix and bronze at the Asian Para Games in Hangzhou.

Although he finished fourth at the 2024 World Championships, his debut at the Paralympics this year was remarkable. Facing tough competition and using a throwing chair, Sema achieved a career-best throw of 14.49 meters on his fourth attempt, earning him the bronze medal.

Iran’s Yasin Khosravi, a two-time para world champion, secured gold with a Paralympic record of 15.96 meters, while Brazil’s Thiago Dos Santos earned silver with 15.06 meters. Sema expressed gratitude for the Indian Army’s support, noting, “I’m thrilled to be the second medalist from the Indian Army and the first in athletics. This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without their support.”

He hopes his medal will inspire other soldiers and aims to excel further at the 2028 Los Angeles Games. Sema’s achievements have been bolstered by support from the Khelo India initiative and the National Centre of Excellence (NCoE), which covered his training, boarding, and lodging.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Sema’s win, calling it a “proud moment” for India and applauding his strength and determination. He shared his congratulations and best wishes for Sema’s future endeavors on X.