Bhubaneswar, Nov. 30 -- 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.

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 Jyotirma...