Young director transforms traditional consultancy with innovative green technology solutions
Harshen represents the thoughtful evolution of Rhino Engineers, incorporated in 1998 by his father Narendra Naidu. What began as a specialized government consultancy has transformed under his influence into an innovative practice that seamlessly blends traditional expertise with cutting-edge sustainable solutions across India’s expanding infrastructure landscape.
Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Indus University, Ahmedabad, Harshen’s entry into the business five years ago wasn’t predetermined. His genuine passion for technology and the limitless possibilities within AV drove his decision to join the family enterprise, but not without earning recognition through proven capability.
“When I joined, my first project was IIM Ahmedabad,” explains Harshen. “We handled a complete turnkey consultancy covering AV, acoustics, HVAC, and fire systems for their auditorium. That’s where I learned that the most necessary part of any project is understanding client requirements – if you can’t understand what they need, you can’t deliver according to their wishes.”
The transition from being “Mr. Naidu’s son” to becoming a trusted consultant required overcoming initial skepticism. “For the first couple of meetings, clients were doubtful because everyone expected Mr. Naidu to appear for Rhino Engineers work,” admits Harshen. “But once they started working with me, a few meetings later they were so impressed they said ‘we have a copy of Mr. Naidu’ and were totally fine with it.”
Harshen’s most significant achievement demonstrates his forward-thinking approach to traditional AV challenges. At Shyamalaji temple, he pioneered a sustainable projection mapping solution that has become his signature innovation.
Strategic Vision
He has been instrumental in fundamentally shifting Rhino Engineers’ strategic focus from purely government-based operations to broader market engagement. “Right now we’re based only in Ahmedabad, but with our growth and expansion across India, we will need regional offices in cities like Mumbai and Delhi,” states Harshen.
His vision extends beyond geographic expansion to market diversification. “We’ve worked exclusively with government for more than two and a half decades, but there are good players in private and commercial spaces ready to invest significantly because of their international relations—they want to showcase the best of the best.”
This evolution reflects understanding of market dynamics where major corporates like Adani and Reliance groups, along with prestigious educational institutes, represent substantial growth opportunities for specialized consultancy services.
Knowledge and Legacy
Growing up observing his father’s work ethic provided Harshen unique insights into industry demands and relationship management. “I love that he is a workaholic, how he treats his employees, colleagues, and everyone in the industry,” he reflects. “The big reason everyone respects him is because of this approach.”
However, Harshen maintains realistic perspective about following such established leadership. “It’s very hard to fill in his shoes – he’s been in this business for almost 40 years. But slowly and steadily, I’m trying to get there.”
His technology background naturally aligns with AV industry evolution. “I have always been very attracted to new technology, and AV is a branch where ideas are limitless. “ he says enthusiastically. “New technologies emerge every day, and creating solutions using audio-visual means gives me great pleasure.”
Looking Forward
Harshen embodies the AV consultancy industry’s future – technically educated and sustainability-focused while maintaining Rhino Engineers’ relationship-based values that have defined the company for over two decades. “it’s been a great learning experience,” he reflects candidly. “What I’m doing provides big relief to him and invaluable growth for me as we expand our reach.”
Their approach combines innovative thinking with proven expertise and deep client understanding, representing India’s AV consultancy evolution through sustainable practices, strategic market expansion, and commitment to excellence that bridges traditional values with forward-thinking solutions.
