LANSING, Mich., Jan. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, has issued a proclamation honoring "Prem Rawat's efforts to increase the public's awareness of inner peace and contentment; his exemplary career, life accomplishments, and many contributions to citizens."

   Prem Rawat is widely known around the world as Maharaji.

  The award reads as follows:

  

"On behalf of the citizens of Michigan, Governor Jennifer M. Granholm hereby honors Prem Rawat.

"Whereas, born in India, Prem Rawat began speaking to audiences at age three and gave his first published speech at the age of four; and,

"Whereas, at age eight, after the death of his father, Prem Rawat committed his life to teaching others about his father's message of peace; and,

"Whereas, since 1971, Prem Rawat has provided inspiration to millions of people and has increased the public's awareness of inner peace and contentment; and,

"Whereas Prem Rawat has traveled around the world speaking to a multitude of audiences, totaling more than 5.5 million people in over 250 cities and 50 countries; and,

"Whereas, honored with many awards and accolades from institutions such as National Geographic and the United States Library of Congress, Prem Rawat has become known as an international leader in the world's efforts for greater peace; and now therefore be it:

"Resolved that I, Jennifer H. Granholm, offer this certificate of tribute to Prem Rawat in honor of his exemplary career, life accomplishments, and many contributions to our citizens."

For Linda Pascotto, President of The Prem Rawat Foundation, "Maharaji has received many awards in the last three decades. However, Governor Granholm's tribute is particularly meaningful because she honors him specifically for his ability to bring people a message of hope and peace and to help them live fulfilled lives."

Maharaji and his message of peace have been receiving growing interest and recognition. During the last 12 months, more than 1.4 million people sought guidance and inspiration from him, and 53,688 people learned the techniques he shows for finding peace within.

The Prem Rawat Foundation has been holding free medical clinics in India and has sent relief supplies to refugees in Ivory Coast and to hurricane victims in Grenada. The Foundation is currently launching an aid program for tsunami victims in Southeast Asia.