Chess Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi Defends Family's Medical Credentials After Online Attack

Vidit Gujrathi, the celebrated Indian chess Grandmaster, recently found himself embroiled in a heated exchange on social media. The dispute arose after a user questioned the credentials of Gujrathi's family members, who were described as doctors in a National Doctors' Day post.

The initial post by Gujrathi celebrated his father (an ayurvedic specialist), mother (a cosmetologist), sister (a physiotherapist), and wife (a homeopathic doctor).

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." This prompted a sharp response 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, responded with a detailed explanation of his viewpoint and professional background. He stated that he intended no offense but was simply expressing a professional opinion.

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 his position on alternative medicine, saying: "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' also emphasized his credentials: "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 original post and 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 further stated: "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."