Odisha village welcomes its champion as para-athlete Loma Swain brings glory to India

A differently-abled girl from Paradip of Jagatsinghpur district has become the pride of the nation. Born mute and deaf, Loma Swain, from Bhutamundai locality, has scripted history by winning India’s first-ever karate medal at the Tokyo Deaflympics, defeating Brazil to claim a bronze.

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The event, held from November 15 to 26 in Japan, marked India’s maiden podium finish in the sport.

Loma returned to Odisha on Sunday to a hero’s welcome. Her native village erupted in celebration—fireworks, drums, flower showers, and a grand procession marked her arrival. People garlanded her, lifted her in joy, and wrapped her in traditional scarves as she made her way home.

The daughter of former sarpanch Sanjay Swain and Jyotirmayee Swain, Loma has overcome extraordinary challenges from childhood. Her parents, who once feared for her future, are now overwhelmed with pride and are calling on society never to underestimate a girl child. They describe her as the ‘gem’ of their family and village.

Loma’s father’s relentless efforts helped shape her into a national-level karate player. She has already bagged multiple gold, silver, and bronze medals in countries like Sri Lanka, South Africa, Nepal, Bhutan, and Japan. Her achievements have drawn congratulations from the Prime Minister, national sports bodies, and district officials.

After being felicitated in New Delhi and Bhubaneswar, she was finally brought home in a magnificent village procession, where emotions ran high among her family and neighbours.

“When she was 3-4 years old, we had got disheartened as she was unable to speak or hear. Still, I continued teaching her certain sports techniques and physical exercises. I had never won any medal in Karate, but I taught her the basics for a strong foundation. My mother was very keen for a son, and we begot a daughter instead,” Loma’s father, Sanjay Swain, narrated.

“We had been trying to nurture her properly and make her a befitting person with the blessings of Lord Jagannath, and our Guru,” the proud father gleamed.