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

Vidit Gujrathi, the celebrated Indian chess Grandmaster, recently found himself in a heated social media exchange after a user questioned the validity of his family members' medical professions.

Vidit Gujrathi. (PTI Photo)

The dispute arose from a post where Gujrathi celebrated National Doctors' Day, acknowledging his father, an ayurvedic specialist; his mother, a cosmetologist; his sister, a physiotherapist; and his wife, a homeopathy MD.

A user known as 'TheLiverDoc' commented on the post, alleging that Gujrathi's family members were not "really doctors."

Social media post by Vidit Gujrathi on X.

Gujrathi responded sharply, criticizing 'TheLiverDoc' for building his online presence on negativity: "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."

Social media post by Vidit Gujrathi on X.

'TheLiverDoc', identifying himself as a hepatologist, defended his statement, clarifying that he intended no offense but was expressing a professional viewpoint.

He stated, "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, emphasizing the significance of Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy and his contributions to India's healthcare system, whose birth and death anniversary is marked by Doctors' Day in India. He argued that including practitioners of Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Cosmetology, and Physiotherapy in the Doctors' Day celebration was inaccurate.

'TheLiverDoc' also highlighted his extensive credentials, including his doctorate in hepatology and numerous scientific publications, to underscore his expertise in the field.

Social media post by Vidit Gujrathi on X.

Gujrathi concluded the exchange by standing by his original post and defending his family: "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."

He 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."