Chess Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi Clashes with 'LiverDoc' Over Family's Medical Credentials

Indian chess Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi recently engaged in a heated exchange on social media after a user questioned the credentials of his family members, whom he had celebrated as doctors on National Doctors' Day.

The dispute arose after Gujrathi posted a tribute to his father, an ayurvedic specialist; his mother, a cosmetologist; his sister, a physiotherapist; and his wife, a homeopathy practitioner with an MD.

Vidit Gujrathi's celebratory social media post.

The user, known as 'TheLiverDoc,' sparked controversy by commenting that Gujrathi's family members were not "really doctors."

Gujrathi responded sharply, stating: "Your entire brand and personality is built on insulting others. While you chase retweets by tearing people down, my family quietly heals lives without needing a spotlight. They've helped more people than your ego can count. Stay in your lane. And for a change, try being useful."

Vidit Gujrathi's strong words in defense of his family.

'TheLiverDoc', identifying himself as a hepatologist, subsequently issued a detailed response, defending his position and highlighting his qualifications. He clarified that he did not intend to offend Gujrathi's family but was expressing a professional viewpoint.

He wrote, "Hello, Vidit. I am not a fan of chess, but you are an important person for our country and I did not mean to offend your family. I am sure they are good people. I was stating plain facts from a professional standpoint and I do not mince my words. You may call that ego or whatever, to console yourself, no problem."

The medical professional further elaborated on his views regarding alternative medicine: "Your statement on Doctors Day claiming an Ayurveda practitioner, Homeopath, Cosmetologist and a Physiotherapist were doctors is wrong and I stand by my words. Doctors' Day in India marks both the birth and death anniversary of Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, one of India's most revered physicians and a key figure in shaping the healthcare system."

'TheLiverDoc' emphasized his credentials and the significance of scientifically-backed medicine: "I am a certified internist with a doctorate in hepatology and liver transplant medicine with 260 peer reviewed scientific publications, 4400 citations and h-index of 30 (just for your information). You don't know me and how useful I am to my patients and their families. I suggest you do a bit of homework before throwing such childish tantrums."

Vidit Gujrathi stands by his family's professions.

Gujrathi concluded the exchange by defending his original post and his family members' professions: "I made a simple post out of gratitude. I chose silence at first, because not every conversation deserves a response. But when it turned into mocking my family, I stepped in. If that means stepping out of my lane, so be it."

The chess grandmaster added: "You and trolls like you don't get to decide who's a doctor. You have no authority to define others lives or dismiss their work. I've said my part. Now, back to what actually matters. No time for noise."

Vidit Gujrathi. (PTI Photo)