Soak Basmati rice in water for 15 minutes.
Heat oil+ghee in a thick bottomed vessel. Add in all the whole spices from Bay leaf till star anise. fry for half a minute.
Further add chopped onions, cashews, green chillies and fry for a minute.
Add ginger garlic paste and fry until onions are slightly brown.
At this stage, add banana flower chopped, chopped coriander leaves and mint leaves.
Mix well and Add crushed tomatoes, turmeric powder, chilli powder and garam masala.
fry for a minute and measure 1.25 cups water for 1 cup rice and add the water along with salt. let the water come to a boil.
Drain and add the soaked basmati rice. Mix well.
Close and cook for 5 minutes in medium heat and 10 minutes in simmer. do not open immediately. open only 10 minutes after switching off.
fluff it up and serve hot with raita.