Chess Star Vidit Gujrathi Fires Back at 'LiverDoc' Over Family Doctor Dispute

Indian chess Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi has responded to criticism from a social media user who questioned the legitimacy of his family members being referred to as doctors. The dispute arose after Gujrathi shared a post on National Doctors' Day celebrating his father, an ayurvedic specialist; his mother, a cosmetologist; his sister, a physiotherapist; and his wife, a homeopathy practitioner.

Vidit Gujrathi. (PTI Photo)

The user, known as 'TheLiverDoc' on social media, commented that Gujrathi's family members were not "really doctors." This sparked a sharp response from the chess grandmaster.

Social media post by Vidit Gujrathi on X.

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."

'TheLiverDoc', who identifies as a hepatologist, defended his stance in a detailed response, asserting he intended no offense but was stating facts from a professional perspective. He argued that including practitioners of alternative medicine in a Doctors' Day celebration was inappropriate.

Social media post by Vidit Gujrathi on X.

TheLiverDoc further elaborated: "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." He also highlighted his qualifications, including a doctorate in hepatology and numerous scientific publications.

Gujrathi concluded the exchange by defending his original post and his family: "I made a simple post out of gratitude... when it turned into mocking my family, I stepped in... 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."