Like a new-born baby, I learnt how to walk after losing my left leg: Paralympic medallist Hokato Hotozhe Sema

NEW DELHI: Paralympics bronze medallist Hokato Hotozhe Sema shared his journey of overcoming adversity after losing his left leg in a landmine explosion in 2002.

The blast occurred in Jammu & Kashmir's Chowkibal during an anti-terrorist operation, which led to his leg being amputated below the knee. Sema spoke about his initial struggles and mental trauma following the injury.

"I was mentally disturbed and in deep depression (after my leg amputation). I never thought I would be like this. I asked myself how I would walk because I don't have one leg," Sema said during a felicitation event in the capital.

Following his amputation, Sema visited the Indian Army's artificial limb center in Pune, where he received an artificial limb. His experience at the center was transformative. "I have not seen an artificial leg till then in my life. Indian Army provided me an artificial limb with a lot of hope. Because of that I am able to stand in front of you," he mentioned.

Witnessing others at the center facing more severe physical challenges inspired Sema. "I thought my condition is nothing as compared to theirs and I felt like I am normal. I got motivated from them," he said.

Despite initial difficulties, including swelling and imbalance, Sema gradually learned to walk again. "But after seeing those at Pune center, I got motivated and started walking slowly. It was like how a new-born child was taught how to walk by holding him," he explained.

Sema's dedication to shot put began in 2016, encouraged by a senior army official after observing his fitness. His hard work paid off when he won a bronze medal in the men's F57 category at the Paralympic Games with a throw of 14.65 meters.

Sema, the first Paralympics medallist from northeast India, also secured a bronze medal at the Hangzhou Para Asian Games last year. Despite narrowly missing a medal at the 2024 World Championships, finishing fourth, his determination remains strong.

Reflecting on his journey, Sema said, "After my leg amputation, I was very sad and I thought how would I make the country proud. I thought a lot and then decided to compete in Paralympics and win medal. So, I got a platform to make the country as well as Indian Army proud."

Since 2016, Sema has been relieved of Army duty, focusing entirely on training and representing India in para-athletics.