Chess Star Vidit Gujrathi Defends Family After 'Doctor' Status Questioned in Online Spat

Vidit Gujrathi, the celebrated Indian chess Grandmaster, recently found himself in a heated exchange on social media after a user questioned the professional standing of his family members. The dispute arose following Gujrathi's post commemorating National Doctors' Day.

The initial post showcased his appreciation for his father, an Ayurvedic specialist; his mother, a cosmetologist; his sister, a physiotherapist; and his wife, a Doctor of Medicine in homeopathy.

Social media post by Vidit Gujrathi on X.

The controversy ignited when a user known as 'TheLiverDoc' commented that Gujrathi's family members were not "really doctors," prompting a strong reaction from the chess champion.

Gujrathi retorted, "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 remarks in a detailed response, stating that he did not intend to offend Gujrathi's family. He explained that his comments were based on a professional interpretation of who qualifies as a doctor.

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 elaborated on his views regarding alternative medicine, asserting that including an Ayurveda practitioner, Homeopath, Cosmetologist, and a Physiotherapist in a Doctors' Day greeting was inaccurate. He emphasized that Doctors' Day in India commemorates the birth and death anniversary of Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, a highly respected physician instrumental in shaping the country's healthcare system.

'TheLiverDoc' further highlighted his credentials, stating, "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."

Social media post by Vidit Gujrathi on X.

Gujrathi concluded the exchange by defending his initial post and his family, stating, "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."