M.D. Gilder

A man of firm and well set stature, a finely modeled nose surmounting his bushy moustache, his lofty brow full of thought, his reflective eyes somewhat prominent beneath the lids, his cheeks tinged with youth, every feature if his face revels the purity of his soul.

His most powerful charm lies in his mind. Like deep water it ripples on the surface but it is still at the bottom. The vibration of his lightest word stirs the soul of the Assembly.

K.L. Kamat/Kamat's Potpourri

M. D. Gilder

His intellect is lofty and serene. The vapor of passion does not ascend to his reason. It is this power of judgment that prevents him form Utopia. It is this rare quality that has made him a highly esteemed Minister.

Dr. M.D.Gilder was born at Bombay on the 5th of November 1882. His father Mr. D. D. Gilder, was a doughty champion in the cause of temperance. For half a century he worked as the Secretary of the Temperance Association. The mantle of the father devolved itself on the shoulders of his illustrious son.

He received his early education at the New High school. Te brilliancy of his talent was reveled in his academic career. He obtained a first class in all the Examinations. He graduated in 1901 and in 1905 took the L.M.S Degree. For six years he stayed in London and secured M.D.(Bruse),L.R.C.P (London),L.R.C.S (Ed.) and F.R.I.P.H (London).

After his return he set up his practice in Bombay as a physician he earned his niche in the temple of fame. He became the President of the Bombay Medical Union and the Indian Temperance Association. He is the honorary Physician of the K.E.M Hospital.

For over 30 years he has been a member of the Bombay Municipal Corporation, The Bombay University Senate and the Director of the Bombay Mutual Life Association Society. He was also the first Non-Official President of the Bandra Municipality.

Dr. Gilder entered politics not by ambition but by accident. One day he was discussing with Sir Chimanlal Setalvad the grievances of the Medical Profession. The Liberal Leader said that Medical men should enter politics and assert their rights. Thereafter Dr.Glider began to actively interest himself in political activities. For ten years he was a member of the Bombay Legislative Council. He illuminated the debates by his thought compelling speeches.

He is the Minister for Public Health in the Bombay cabinet. On his solid features are imprinted masculine understandings and amiable optimism. 

Source: Haripura Congress Souvenir, 1938