Hokato Hotozhe Sema – First Paralympic Medallist
Nagaland’s first Paralympic bronze medallist, Hokato Hotozhe Sema, received a grand and heartwarming welcome at Dimapur airport after his historic win in the Men’s F57 shot put event at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games. Sema’s achievement has brought immense pride to Nagaland and the nation, marking a milestone in the state’s sporting history.
In a scene straight out of a hero’s welcome, Nagaland’s first Paralympic bronze medallist, Hokato Hotozhe Sema, was met with a wave of cheers and applause as he touched down at Dimapur airport on Thursday. The atmosphere was nothing short of electric, with a crowd that would’ve made even the Queen’s Jubilee look like a quiet garden party.
The reception, meticulously organised by the Western Sumi Hoho along with a chorus of civil society groups, NGOs, tribal organisations, and student bodies, was a proper display of pomp and circumstance. People from every nook and cranny turned up in their Sunday best to honour Sema’s stunning achievement. It’s not every day you welcome home a Paralympic medallist, after all.
Hailing from the small but proud P. Vihoto Village in Niuland’s Aghunaqa area, Sema has done what many dream of but few achieve. By winning the bronze in the Men’s F57 shot put event at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games, he’s not only put Nagaland on the global sports map but also given the rest of the nation a good reason to sit up and take notice.
As the media gathered around him like moths to a flame, Sema, with a humble smile, thanked the people of Nagaland for their outpouring of love and support. “I couldn’t have done it without them,” he said. And considering the injuries and illness he suffered just a week before the Games, his journey to Paris wasn’t exactly a stroll in the park. “My goal has always been to win a medal for Nagaland, like other northeastern states that have earned accolades in sports. Next time, I’ll bring home a medal with a different colour,” he added with a cheeky wink. Clearly, bronze isn’t quite enough for this lad.
Sema was quick to credit his success to divine intervention, as well as the prayers and well wishes of his fellow Nagas. “It kept me strong throughout,” he said. Quite right, too. If there’s anything that can lift a shot putter’s spirit, it’s a combination of faith and fervent support.
The Nagaland Parasports Committee and the Nagaland Olympic Association wasted no time in chiming in with their congratulations. It’s safe to say, they’re probably still patting themselves on the back for this historic milestone.
As the dust settles from this heartwarming reception, one thing is for sure—Hokato Hotozhe Sema’s name will be written in Nagaland’s sporting history in bold, capital letters. And if his determination is anything to go by, this is just the beginning for the plucky Paralympian.
So, here’s to Hokato—Nagaland’s pride, and a fine reminder that sometimes, the underdog not only bites but also makes off with the prize. Well done, lad!
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