Atheist Krishna (Radhakrishna Panga), digital creator and photographer-restorer, passes away at 29 due to pneumonia complications
Hyderabad/New Delhi – A vibrant presence in India’s digital landscape, Atheist Krishna—born Radhakrishna Panga—has passed away from complications due to pneumonia, early on the morning of July 23, 2025. His passing was confirmed by his brother via WhatsApp at 4:30 am, marking a sudden end to a life devoted to spreading joy through memes, Photoshop artistry, and emotional photo restoration.
From secular roots to soul-stirring digital art
Hailing originally from Odisha and later based in Visakhapatnam and Hyderabad, Krishna adopted the moniker “Atheist Krishna” to reflect his secular worldview—a name that belied the warmth he conveyed through every creation. He rose to prominence on platforms like X, where his humour-led memes soon gave way to emotionally resonant Photoshop edits. From reviving sepia-toned family portraits to crafting satire that drew national attention, his talent bridged laughter with nostalgia, earning him a devoted following of over 430,000 fans.
Celebrity and political recognition
Krishna’s digital ingenuity captured eyes far beyond the internet. In 2019, Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar recorded a heartfelt video for him:
“I recently showed one of your memes to our Prime Minister, and he had a hearty laugh… Keep spreading joy with your clean and honest humour”.
The message reached PM Narendra Modi, who reportedly laughed along. The President later reposted the video—an endorsement few digital creators receive.
A quiet plea from hospital bed
In early July, Krishna’s health abruptly turned serious. He underwent surgery but developed pneumonia that quickly worsened, leading to fluid in his lungs. On July 10, he texted a close friend:
“It would be a miracle if I survive this”.
Despite medical intervention in Hyderabad, his condition deteriorated and he passed away just under two weeks later.
Echoes of grief, celebration of creativity
The digital and creative community was devastated by the news. X user @nainaverse shared Krishna’s hospital messages and later posted:
“Woke up to the terrible news… He was one of the kindest people I met… Gone too soon…”.
Actress Rupali Ganguly remembered him as “emotion wrapped in sarcasm and humour,” lamenting that “his silence today leaves a void”. Author Anand Ranganathan called him “a brilliant mind… a kind‑hearted soul,” praising a piece that “delivered its message with a gentle smile”. Many fans streamed comments reflecting their disbelief, noting “the timeline feels emptier today” and calling him “the Prince of Funny Photoshop Videos”.
A legacy beyond laughter
Atheist Krishna’s work was never simply about humour—it was about connection. His skillful restorations of old photographs sparked emotional reconnections across generations. His clean, inclusive memes stood in contrast to much of the internet’s polarizing trends, earning admiration for their integrity and gentle satire.
His digital footprint—countless memes, photo restorations, viral videos, and heartfelt engagements—leaves a blueprint for creators who aim to blend laughter with warmth and nostalgia. In sudden passing at just 29, he leaves behind a community that his work uplifted and a profound reminder of creativity’s power to touch hearts.
Looking ahead
Tributes continue to flood in, with fans and fellow creators promising to carry forward the clean‑humour ethos he championed. Although his physical presence is gone, Krishna’s work stands immortal on digital platforms—as a reminder that humour and empathy can go hand in hand.
He is survived by his family, many online friends-to-heal, and the thousands who found comfort and smiles in his creations. Condolences can be shared on his X profile and in the comment sections of popular tributes trending under #AtheistKrishna.
Gone far too soon, but never forgotten.
