Imran Inamdar, TwoCircles.net
Solapur (Maharashtra): Brilliance knows no age. Twelve-year-old Abdullah Imran Mangalgiri is proof of that. He is turning heads across Maharashtra and the internet for building a solar-powered bicycle from scratch.
A student of Grade 7 at MA Pangal Urdu High School in Solapur, Abdullah has created a functional bicycle — which runs on solar energy, battery power and traditional pedalling. It is an eco-friendly innovation with real-world potential, built with curiosity, passion and a budget of just Rs 9,000.
Living near Madina Chowk in the Nai Zindagi locality, Abdullah began working on the project two years ago. After countless hours of tinkering and experimenting, he demonstrated his invention to the public, riding the bicycle effortlessly using all three modes. To everyone’s amazement, the cycle started up just like a scooter — with no need to pedal.
His father, Imran Mangalgiri, said Abdullah has always had a curious mind. “Since childhood, he enjoyed dismantling toys to see how they worked and then putting them back together,” he shared.
The family supported and provided him spare parts and materials, nurturing what they now see as budding brilliance.
What makes Abdullah’s innovation even more impressive is that it was developed through self-research. Speaking to Twocircles.net, he explained, “I used a combination of parts like a speedometer, central PS and other components to convert the regular bicycle into a solar powered one.”
“I have had a passion for inventing new things since I was young. For the past two years, I have been trying to figure out how to run a bicycle on solar power. My efforts have finally paid off,” he said.
He now uses his invention to commute to school, covering a distance of 8 kilometers daily. He claimed he rode his solar bicycle, during the testing phase, across local roads for an entire day without facing any technical issues. “It was a confidence-boosting trial, which cemented my belief in my invention,” he proudly said.
Abdullah now plans to integrate even more advanced features. “I want to add robotic features and GPS to make the bicycle more high-tech,” he said.
His ambitions do not stop there only. “I want to make machines, cycles and bikes that will benefit the common man and bring glory to our nation,” he said with confidence.
Inspired by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, former President and a celebrated scientist, Abdullah dreams of becoming a scientist. He does not see his Urdu-medium education as a limitation. “My interest in science and engineering drives me, and I have learned a lot through the internet,” he said.
On March 8, Abdullah’s school recognised his outstanding achievement in front of fellow students and teachers, presenting him with a trophy and a certificate to honour his innovation.
His mother, Safiya, recalled his early years fondly. “He used to constantly ask for toy cars, bikes and machines just so he could take them apart and understand how they worked. At first, it was frustrating. But we soon realised it was more than just play — it was passion,” she said.
Abdullah is the only son in a family of four children. His three sisters are all pursuing their studies. His father is a freelance journalist and small business owner, while his mother is a homemaker.
The recognition has started to reach beyond local circles. Mini supercomputer developer Saad Memon, currently working as a research scientist in Luxembourg, shared his admiration.
“Engineering work is remarkable for this young age, demonstrating a critical understanding of the growing need for renewable energy. Abdullah’s solar-powered electric cycle project shows how practical applications make science more engaging in schools. I wish him great success in his future innovations,” he said.