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 For a dying elderly Hindu person, families usually choose peaceful devotional texts that are traditionally read near the end of life. The most common choices are Bhagavad Gita, Garuda Purana, Srimad Bhagavatam, and Ramcharitmanas.

These are used because hearing sacred verses is believed to calm the mind and focus thoughts on God at the end of life.

Most traditional choice (after or near death)

Garuda Purana

• Traditionally read when death is near or after passing
• Describes the soul’s journey after death and rituals
• Families read it aloud so the soul “understands what is happening” during transition  
• Common in North Indian and Bengali traditions

Gentle devotional reading (good before death)

Bhagavad Gita

• Focuses on detachment, surrender, and peace
• Many prefer Chapter 2, 8, or 12
• Less graphic than Garuda Purana — calmer atmosphere

Srimad Bhagavatam (Bhagavat Purana)

• Bhakti-focused (Krishna stories)
• Very comforting for devotees
• Often read continuously near bedside

Ramcharitmanas

• Soft devotional poetry
• Popular for elderly Vaishnava devotees
• Sundar Kand often chosen

Which one to choose (simple guide)

• Very traditional / ritual → Garuda Purana
• Peaceful and philosophical → Bhagavad Gita
• Bhakti/devotional → Srimad Bhagavatam
• Rama devotee → Ramcharitmanas

If you tell me:

• language (Hindi / Bengali / English / Sanskrit)
• before death or after death
• person is Shiva devotee / Krishna devotee / general Hindu

…I can suggest the most appropriate one.