Pejavara Mutt chief's health condition very critical: Doctors

: The health condition of the head of Pejavara Mutt Vishwesha Teertha Swamiji is very critical and there is a further decline in his condition, doctors said on Saturday.

The Pejavara mutt is one among the 'Ashta' Mutts of Udupi.

"The condition of Shri Vishwesha Theertha Swameeji is very critical and there is further decline in his health status. He remains unconscious and continues to be on life support. Tests have shown severe brain dysfunction," medical superintendent of Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, said in a health bulletin.

The 88-year-old swamiji, hospitalised on December 20 after he developed breathing difficulty, has since been in the ICU, the bulletin said.

Doctors had earlier said the pontiff was being treated for extensive pneumonia.

With the seer's condition critical, Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa, who was touring the coastal region, rushed to the hospital.

"Doctors have told me that Pejavara swamiji's condition continues to remain serious and all efforts are being made by the medical team for his recovery," Chief Ministertold reporters at Honnavara earlier in the day.