 In March 2010, Athaiya released her book "The Art of Costume Design", published by Harper Collins.On 13 January 2013, Athaiya presented a copy of the book to the Dalai Lama.On 23 February 2012, it was reported that Athaiya wished to return her Academy Award to The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences because she felt that her family will not be able to take care of the trophy after her demise.