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Economic Times
06-07-2025
- Health
- Economic Times
Who's a 'real' doctor? How Chess grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi vs The Liver Doc's viral war of words began... over a selfie
Agencies Who's a Real Doctor? India's Heated Debate Begins with a Family Selfie On July 1, 2025, Indian chess grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi posted a heartfelt tribute to his family on X (formerly Twitter) in honor of National Doctors' Day. The message, accompanied by a selfie featuring his wife, parents, and sister, expressed his admiration and appreciation for the medical professionals in his family. While the post was intended as a gesture of gratitude, it quickly became the center of a major online controversy about who is truly eligible to be called a 'doctor' in India. Curious followers soon began asking about the specific fields of expertise held by his family members. In response, Gujrathi explained that his father is an Ayurvedic migraine specialist, his wife holds an MD in homeopathy, his mother works in cosmetology, and his sister is a physiotherapist. Initially, the post was met with warmth. However, within 24 hours, the tone shifted drastically. On July 2, Dr. Cyriac Abby Philips, a hepatologist better known on social media as The Liver Doc, responded sharply to Gujrathi's post. In a blunt statement, Dr. Philips asserted that the individuals mentioned in the tribute should not be classified as doctors. This response sparked a flurry of reactions, quickly dividing social media into supporters and critics. — theliverdr (@theliverdr) The Liver Doc, known for his firm stance against unscientific practices in healthcare, argued that Ayurveda, homeopathy, cosmetology, and physiotherapy do not fall under the scope of conventional clinical medicine. Although he acknowledged that physiotherapy is a legitimate branch of healthcare that supports recovery and rehabilitation, he firmly stated that the other disciplines lack clinical validation. His especially severe comments about homeopathy, which he controversially associated with historical pseudoscientific movements, inflamed the situation Gujrathi did not remain silent. He defended his family, stating that they were all formally trained, qualified, and certified practitioners in their respective fields. He emphasized their commitment to serving others and the impact they have made over the years, even if they weren't working in the limelight. Though he later deleted his original post, Gujrathi posted screenshots of his conversation with The Liver Doc, accusing him of seeking attention by publicly attacking others instead of celebrating their contributions. — viditchess (@viditchess) In his follow-up, Gujrathi expressed that his intention was simply to honour his loved ones. He admitted he initially chose to stay quiet but felt compelled to speak out after what he described as mockery and dismissal of his family's work. He stressed that critics on social media cannot determine who deserves to be called a doctor, especially when individuals in his family have devoted their lives to helping people through alternative systems of medicine. — theliverdr (@theliverdr) — viditchess (@viditchess) According to a report by India Today , the term 'doctor' in India is not restricted to those with MBBS or MD degrees in modern allopathic medicine. Under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of AYUSH, professionals holding degrees like BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) and BHMS (Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery) are legally recognized as doctors. These individuals are allowed to use the prefix "Dr." before their names and are registered under statutory bodies such as the Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM) and the Central Council of Homeopathy (CCH).However, these councils are separate from the National Medical Commission (NMC), which governs allopathic medical practitioners. While AYUSH doctors can legally practice within their respective disciplines, they are not authorized to prescribe allopathic medication or present themselves as clinical physicians. This legal distinction often blurs in everyday practice, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas where access to conventional healthcare is controversy highlights a persistent tension in India's healthcare landscape. While traditional systems like Ayurveda and homeopathy have deep cultural roots and legal recognition, they continue to be contested by many from the modern medical though integral to patient recovery, are not granted the title of 'doctor' under standard clinical definitions. Cosmetologists, on the other hand, may or may not be doctors depending on their educational background—if they hold an MBBS or equivalent degree in dermatology or aesthetic medicine, they may the end, what started as a tribute evolved into a conversation about professional legitimacy, public perception, and the evolving definition of a doctor in modern India. As the debate unfolds, one thing is certain: the divide between traditional and modern medicine continues to challenge India's healthcare identity.
Time of India
06-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Who's a 'real' doctor? How Chess grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi vs The Liver Doc's viral war of words began... over a selfie
On July 1, 2025, Indian chess grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi posted a heartfelt tribute to his family on X (formerly Twitter) in honor of National Doctors' Day . The message, accompanied by a selfie featuring his wife, parents, and sister, expressed his admiration and appreciation for the medical professionals in his family. While the post was intended as a gesture of gratitude, it quickly became the center of a major online controversy about who is truly eligible to be called a 'doctor' in India. Curious followers soon began asking about the specific fields of expertise held by his family members. In response, Gujrathi explained that his father is an Ayurvedic migraine specialist, his wife holds an MD in homeopathy , his mother works in cosmetology, and his sister is a physiotherapist. Initially, the post was met with warmth. However, within 24 hours, the tone shifted drastically. The Liver Doc Steps In, Stirring Up Storm On July 2, Dr. Cyriac Abby Philips, a hepatologist better known on social media as The Liver Doc, responded sharply to Gujrathi's post. In a blunt statement, Dr. Philips asserted that the individuals mentioned in the tribute should not be classified as doctors. This response sparked a flurry of reactions, quickly dividing social media into supporters and critics. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Scientists: Tinnitus? When tinnitus won't go away, do this (Watch) Hearing Magazine Undo — theliverdr (@theliverdr) The Liver Doc, known for his firm stance against unscientific practices in healthcare, argued that Ayurveda , homeopathy, cosmetology, and physiotherapy do not fall under the scope of conventional clinical medicine. Although he acknowledged that physiotherapy is a legitimate branch of healthcare that supports recovery and rehabilitation, he firmly stated that the other disciplines lack clinical validation. His especially severe comments about homeopathy, which he controversially associated with historical pseudoscientific movements, inflamed the situation further. Gujrathi Responds with Defiance Vidit Gujrathi did not remain silent. He defended his family, stating that they were all formally trained, qualified, and certified practitioners in their respective fields. He emphasized their commitment to serving others and the impact they have made over the years, even if they weren't working in the limelight. Though he later deleted his original post, Gujrathi posted screenshots of his conversation with The Liver Doc, accusing him of seeking attention by publicly attacking others instead of celebrating their contributions. — viditchess (@viditchess) In his follow-up, Gujrathi expressed that his intention was simply to honour his loved ones. He admitted he initially chose to stay quiet but felt compelled to speak out after what he described as mockery and dismissal of his family's work. He stressed that critics on social media cannot determine who deserves to be called a doctor, especially when individuals in his family have devoted their lives to helping people through alternative systems of medicine. — theliverdr (@theliverdr) — viditchess (@viditchess) The Medical Legality Behind the Title "Doctor" According to a report by India Today , the term 'doctor' in India is not restricted to those with MBBS or MD degrees in modern allopathic medicine. Under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of AYUSH, professionals holding degrees like BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) and BHMS (Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery) are legally recognized as doctors. These individuals are allowed to use the prefix "Dr." before their names and are registered under statutory bodies such as the Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM) and the Central Council of Homeopathy (CCH). However, these councils are separate from the National Medical Commission (NMC), which governs allopathic medical practitioners. While AYUSH doctors can legally practice within their respective disciplines, they are not authorized to prescribe allopathic medication or present themselves as clinical physicians. This legal distinction often blurs in everyday practice, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas where access to conventional healthcare is limited. Who Gets to Be a Doctor? The Debate Endures The controversy highlights a persistent tension in India's healthcare landscape. While traditional systems like Ayurveda and homeopathy have deep cultural roots and legal recognition, they continue to be contested by many from the modern medical establishment. Physiotherapists, though integral to patient recovery, are not granted the title of 'doctor' under standard clinical definitions. Cosmetologists, on the other hand, may or may not be doctors depending on their educational background—if they hold an MBBS or equivalent degree in dermatology or aesthetic medicine, they may qualify. In the end, what started as a tribute evolved into a conversation about professional legitimacy, public perception, and the evolving definition of a doctor in modern India. As the debate unfolds, one thing is certain: the divide between traditional and modern medicine continues to challenge India's healthcare identity.
Time of India
04-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
'Not real doctors'? Chess Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi fires back in viral Doctor's Day spat
Image credits: X/@TheKhelIndia Indian Chess Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi has recently been making headlines for his viral spat with a doctor on X. The 30-year-old chess player recently took to X to wish his family a happy National Doctor's Day on July 1st. A social media user with the handle 'TheLiverDoc' commented on Gujrathi's post that none of his family members were "really doctors." Ever since, the two have been engaged in an online verbal war that seems to have no end. On July 1st, Gujrathi posted a photo of his family on X writing, "Happy Doctor's Day to my entire family." When asked about the medical specialities of his family members by a person in the comments, he revealed that his father is an Ayurvedic migraine specialist, his wife is an MD Homoeopathy, his mom practices cosmetology and his sister is a physiotherapist. Sometime later, 'TheLiverDoc' reposted Gujrathi's post writing, "I am sorry but none of them are really doctors." Gujrathi responded strongly to the comment writing, 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 claimed to be a certified internist with a doctorate in hepatology and liver transplant medicine then took to the social media platform to pen a detailed response clarifying that he meant no offence to the chess player's family and was making a point from a professional standpoint. He explained how Doctor's Day is celebrated as the birth and death anniversary of Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy, one of India's most revered physicians and how the practitioners of Ayurveda , Homeopathy, Cosmetology and Physiotherapy are not "clinical physicians" and the practices themselves are not "realistic clinical medicine." He added how Gujrathi's ignorance of science and health affects the public perception of realistic healthcare and pseudoscientific practices, adding that the medicines he mentioned were "alternate medicine" that is not proven to work. The man clarified his credentials adding that he has 260 peer-reviewed scientific publications, 4400 citations, and an h-index of 30. "Calling out medical misinformation is what I do apart from being a full-time doctor. I suggest you stay in your lane and discuss more on chess. Sorry for the checkmate. And for a change, talk about chess and try being useful. All the best for your future matches," ended the man. Social media reactions Image credits: X/@theliverdr People on X have been commenting under TheLiverDoc's post condemning his comments on Gujrathi's family and on Ayurveda not being a medicinal practice. "Original healing science of India since ancient times is Ayurveda. Homoeopathy is modern day Ayurveda. Allopathy is a fraud science of which you are a practitioner," wrote a man to TheLiverDoc. "Which "medicines" existed before "science" came to play?" probed another. "Someone celebrates their birthday on X. They: 'Woohoo! Goodbye 30, hello 31!' 🎉 TL Doctor: I am sorry, but you are nearing death. There is nothing scientific about it - just Earth doing another lap around the sun." quipped another X user.
India Today
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- India Today
Who's a doctor anyway? Vidit Gujrathi, The Liver Doc slug it out
In India, the question of who qualifies as a doctor is one that chess grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi and Dr Cyriac Abby Philips, popularly known as The Liver Doc, have been actively dissecting and bisecting on X since July 2. While people weighed in on both sides, a section of users questioned if the post, meant to celebrate doctors in the family, should at all have sparked the debate in the first all began with a post shared by Vidit Gujrathi on July 1, featuring a picture of his family as he wished them on National Doctors' Day. 'Happy Doctors' Day to my entire family,' Gujrathi wrote in his post on X, along with a selfie he had taken with his parents, sister, and users asked about their specialisations, to which Gujrathi replied: 'My father is an Ayurvedic Migraine specialist, wife is MD, Homeopathy, mom does Cosmetology and sister is a physiotherapist.' It was all good till one tweet from The Liver Doc changed the tone of the conversation entirely.'I am sorry but none of them are really doctors,' he wrote bluntly, triggering a cascade of reactions and a heated exchange with the hit back, defending his family's qualifications and sacrifices, saying they were 'certified doctors' who had dedicated their lives to supporting him and helping later deleted the original post but clapped back by sharing screenshots of his interaction with The Liver Doc, accusing him of chasing clout by 'tearing people down' and insisting that his family had "quietly healed lives without needing a spotlight.' His response triggered a massive statement from The Liver Doc - a hepatologist himself - who insisted that he did not mean to offend Gujrathi's family but was just 'stating plain facts from a professional standpoint'.Without 'mincing his words', The Liver Doc insisted: 'Your statement on Doctors Day claiming an Ayurveda practitioner, Homeopath, Cosmetologist and a Physiotherapist were doctors is wrong and I stand by my words.''Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Cosmetology or Physiotherapy are not realistic clinical medicine or and their practitioners are not clinical physicians. Physiotherapy is a legit branch of healthcare (adjunct to clinical medicine), but the rest are just plain sham - especially Homeopathy, which is also known as N*zi Medicine because H*tler tried to integrate it with conventional medicine at the time,' he who is legally a doctor in India?advertisementIn India, the title of "doctor" is not exclusive to allopathic (MBBS) practitioners. Under the Ministry of AYUSH, which oversees Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy, practitioners with BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) and BHMS (Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery) degrees are legally recognised as "doctors" and can prefix 'Dr' to their are registered under separate councils such as the Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM) and Central Council of Homeopathy (CCH), distinct from the Medical Council of India (now the National Medical Commission, NMC), which regulates allopathic medicine and its contention arises with respect to their practice. While AYUSH doctors can legally practice in their respective systems, they are not recognised as allopathic or clinical physicians and cannot prescribe allopathic medicines – a boundary that often blurs in meanwhile, are not classified as doctors in the strict medical sense but are highly trained rehabilitation specialists in the healthcare system. Cosmetologists may or may not be doctors, depending on whether they hold a medical to The Liver Doc's post about Gujrathi's family, he just didn't stop at the classifications but continued that the grandmaster's 'claim' about his family 'has major public health consequences, because someone of your stature, being ignorant about science and health affects public perception of realistic healthcare and pseudoscientific practices.'Read The Liver Doc's entire response to Gujarathi here:While The Liver Doc's argument is rooted in medical accuracy, critics argued that his timing lacked empathy and that his fight should be against the concerned authorities and not the grandmaster in particular.'Even if The Liver Doc had a valid point, this wasn't the time or place to make that point. Vidit was just showing love to his parents on Doctor's Day, the people who've supported him through thick and thin. His post wasn't harming anyone. Sometimes it's better to understand the moment and let people be,' a user Liver Doc's 'sole intention is to mock/undermine and humiliate continuously, and there is a pattern,' a user said, referencing his constant heated exchanges with several The Liver Doc is right in debating who should be called a doctor, it should be the government, and not a chess grandmaster celebrating a family moment, that his questions should be directed debate has triggered a significant conversation, not just about who qualifies as a doctor, but also about the need for nuance, respect, and timing in an increasingly online world where lines between personal and professional are constantly tested.- Ends
Hindustan Times
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
‘You don't get to decide who's a doctor': Vidit Gujrathi lashes out at Liver Doc over Doctor's Day jibe
Indian Chess Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi has called hepatologist Dr Cyriac Abby Philips, popular as The Liver Doc, a 'troll' amid their ongoing online spat. A Doctor's Day post made 'out of gratitude' by Gujrathi prompted a full-scale X war after Liver Doc commented on the picture that featured the chess GM's family members. Vidit Gujrathi accused Liver Doc of mocking his family after he remarked on the chess grandmaster's Doctor's Day post. (X/@theliverdr, @viditchess) What did Vidit Gujrathi say? '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,' he wrote. 'If that means stepping out of my lane, so be it. 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,' he added. What started it all? The post came as a response to Philips' reply to Gujrathi, who lashed out at him for writing, 'I am sorry, but none of them are really doctors' on a picture showing Gujrathi's family. Earlier, in response to a comment on the picture, Gujarati shared the professional specialities of his family members. 'My father is an Ayurvedic migraine specialist, my wife is an MD homoeopathy, my mom does cosmetology, and my sister is a physiotherapist.' In another post shared earlier, Liver Doc said he didn't mean to offend Gujrathi but added, '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.' 'I am staying in my lane and always have. Calling out medical misinformation is what I do apart from being a full-time doctor. I suggest you stay in your lane and discuss more on chess. Sorry for the checkmate,' the Liv Doc further added.
